T^CA^Tffr   ^#oM 


COL.  GEORGE  WASHINGTON  FLOWERS 
MEMORIAL  COLLECTION 


TRINITY  COLLEGE  LIBRARY 
DURHAM.  N.C. 


Established  by  the  family  of 
COL.  GEORGE  WASHINGTON  FLOWERS 


Date_ 


n ,  //  ^ 


AN  ELEMENTARY  TREATISE 


ON 


ADVANCED- GUARD,  OUT-POST, 

AND 

DETACHMENT  SERVICE  OF  TROOPS, 

AND  THB  MANNER  OF 

POSTING  AND  HANDLING  THEM 

IN  PRESENCE  OF  AN  ENEMY. 

INTENDED  AS  A 

SUPPLEMENT  TO  THE  SYSTEM  OF  TACTICS 

Adopted  for  the  military  service  of  the  United  States,  and  especially 
for  the  use  of  Officers  of  Militia  and  Volunteers. 


i?Y  i>.  ir.  ]M[^Hj\.iv, 

PBOraSROB  OF     UILITABT    AND   CIVIL  ENatNIBBINQ,    AND   OF   TRI    BCIERCB  Or   WAB,   IN    THB 
UNITED  BTATBS'  MILITABX  ACADEMY. 


NEW  ORLEANS : 

^loomfield  <^  Bteel,  ^oohsellers  and  Stationers. 
1861. 


-/. 


J-      y 


-•  •  ♦- 


CHAPTER  I. 

MANNER  OF  PLACING  AND  HANDLING  TROOPS      •       9 

CHAPTER  II. 
POSITIONS ■     ....      26 

CHAPTER  III. 

ADVANCED-GUARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS     •       -      49 

CHAPTER  IV. 
REC0NN0IS3ANCES 73 

CHAPTER  V. 
DETACHMENTS  87 

CHAPTER  VI. 
CONVOYS 123 

CHAPTER  VII. 
SURPRISES  AND  AMBUSCADES 140 


178018 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Arciiive 
in  2010  with  funding  from 
Duke  University  Libraries 


http://www.archive.org/details/elementarytreatiOOmaha 


I»REFA.C  E. 


The  want  of  a  work  of  this  kind  has  long  been  felt 
among  our  officers  of  Militia  generally,  as  English 
literature  is  quite  barren  in  systematic  works  on  most 
branches  of  the  military  art,  especially  so  on  the  one 
known  among  the  military  writers  of  the  continent 
as  La  Petite  Guerre,  or  the  manner  of  conducting  the 
operations  of  small  independent  bodies  of  troops ;  and 
but  few  of  these  officers  are  able  to  devote  that  time  to 
military  studies,  which  their  pursuit  in  a  foreign  lan- 
guage necassarily  demands. 

In  making  this  compilation,  the  works  in  most 
repute  have  been  carefully  consulted,  and  a  selection 
made  from  them  of  what  was  deemed  to  be  most 
useful  to  the  class  of  readers  for  which  it  is  intended. 
The  object  of  the  writer  has  been  to  give  a  concise 
but  clear  view  of  the  essential  points  in  each  of  the 
subjects  introduced  into  the  work;  if  he  has  succeed- 
ed in  this,  he  trusts  that  the  very  obvious  defects  of 
the  work  will  be  overlooked. 


17S018 


CHAPTER  I. 

MANNER  OF  PLACING  AND  HANDLING  TROOPS.' 
INFANTRY, 

1.  Position  and  Formation. — On  the  field  of  battle, 
whether  the  object  be  to  attack,  or  defend,  the  infantry 
is  divided  into  three  bodies  ;  an  advanced-guard,  the 
main-body,  and  a  reserve.  Their  relative  proportion 
will  depend  upon  the  total  force,  and  the  character  of 
the  position  occupied.  The  advance-guard  must  be 
of  sufficient  strength  to  hold  the  enemy  in  check,  but, 
at  the  same  time,  the  main  body,  upon  which  the 
brunt  of  the  action  should  fall,  must  not  be  left  of 
insuflScicnt  force,  by  unnecessarily  increasing  the 
advanced-guard;  and  the  reserve  should  be  strong 
enough  to  repair  any  disaster  that  may  befall  the 
main  body,  or  to  profit  by  its  success  in  accomplish- 
ing the  complete  overthrow  of  the  enemj\ 

2.  These  three  bodies  are  separated  from  each  other 
by  intervals  which  will  depend  upon  the  nature  of 
the  ground.  The  advanced-guard  occupying  the 
front;  the  main  bod}'  at  a  distance  from  150  to  300 
paces  in  its  rear  ;  and  the  reserve  at  a  like  interval 
to  the  rear  of  the  main  body.  Where  the  ground,  for 
example,   is  undulating,    and  therefore  favorable  to 

B 


10  INFANTRY. 

masking  the  troops  from  the  enemj^'s  fire,  these  inter- 
vals may,  if  requisite,  be  reduced  to  80  or  100  paces. 

3.  The  troops  composing  these  three  bodies  will  be 
formed  either  in  columns  of  battalions,  or  be  deployed, 
according  to  the  circumstances  under  which  they 
may  be  placed.  For  an  attack,  for  evolution,  or  for 
defence  against  cavalry,  the  formation  of  columns 
of  battalions  is  best.  To  repel  the  enemy's  attack 
by  a  fire,  and  in  some  cases,  to  present  a  less 
favorable  mark  to  his  artillery,  the  battalions  are 
deployed.  The  battalions,  whether  deployed  or  in 
column,  preserve  the  proper  intervals  for  evolutions; 
these  intervals  may  be  increased  in  obstructed  ground 
without  weakening  the  defence. 

4.  The  battalions  composing  the  main  body  may 
be  drawn  up  in  one  or^two  lines.  The  latter  usually 
obtains  only  when  a  large  force  is  present.  In  this 
case  the  reserve  no  longer  holds  the  position  of  a 
third  line,  as  in  the  other,  but  forms  an  independent 
body,  to  be  used  according  to  emergency  ;  the  second 
line  supporting  the  battalions  of  the  first,  and,  for 
this  purpose,  occupying  positions  to  the  rear,  opposite 
to  their  intervals. 

5.  Defence. — When  the  position  is  taken  up  to 
receive  the  enemy's  attack,  and  then  either  to  remain 
on  the  defensive,  or  to  assume  the  offensive,  as  cir- 
cumstances may  justify,  the  advanced-guard  will  be 
posted  on  the  ground  most  favorable  to  hold  the 
enemy  in  check,  and  so  force  him,  by  disputing  it 
with  tenacity,  to  develope  his  means  and  plans. 
This  is  best  done  by  a  judicious  combat  of  skirmish- 


INFANTRY.  11 

ers,  who,  for  this  purpose,  are  thrown  forward  300  or 
400  paces,  to  feel  the  enemy,  and  are  only  reinforced 
when  closely  pressed. 

6.  Whether  the  advanced-guard  shall  maintain  its 
ground  obstinately  until  reinforced  by  the  main-body, 
or  whether  it  shall  fall  back,  either  on  the  flanks  or 
to  the  rear  of  the  main-body,  must  be  determined  by 
the  strength  of  its  position.  If  this  be  so  strong  that 
the  enemy's  loss  in  carrying  it  must  be  great,  then  it 
should  be  pertinaciously  maintained;  in  the  contrary 
case  it  must,  after  a  suitable  show  of  resistance,  be 
abandoned. 

7.  As  a  general  rule,  troops  should  be  placed  aS' 
much  out  of  view  as  practicable  before  tliey  go  into- 
action,  by  taking  advantage  of  covers  offered  by  the 
ground.  The  main-body  should  be  kept  masked  in 
this  way  until  it  is  called  to  engage  the  enemy.  If 
it  advance  to  support  the  advanced-guard,  it  will 
usually  attack  with  the  bayonet;  if  the  advanced- 
guard  is  called  in,  the  main -body  will  usually  receive 
the  enemy  by  its  fire ;  the  battalions  being  deployed 
for  this  purpose.  If  the  enemy  is  staggered  by  this 
fire,  or,  in  advancing,  shows,  by  the  wavering  or 
confusion  of  his  lino,  a  want  of  confidence,  the  fire 
may  be  followed  up  either  by  a  charge  of  the  troops 
in  line,  or  they  may  be  formed  in  columns  of  attack 
before  charging,  if  the  enemy  perseveres  in  his 
onward  movement.  A  charge  by  column,  when  the 
enemy  is  within  fifty  paces,  will  prove  effective,  if 
resolutely  made. 

8.  The   reserve  is   composed  of  the  most  reliable 


12  INFANTRY. 

troops.  It  should  be  distinguished  for  cool  courage; 
acting  under  all  circumstances,  either  defensive  or 
offensive,  with  circumspection  and  determined  reso- 
lution. 

As  the  object  of  the  reserve  is  to  infuse  greater 
energy  into  the  action  of  the  main-body,  and,  if 
necessary,  to  strike  a  lapt  and  decisive  blow,  it  should 
be  kept  masked  from  the  enemy's  fire  and  view  until 
called  into  action.  The  proper  moment  for  engaging 
the  reserve  is  either  when  the  enemy  has  been  shaken 
in  his  attack  by  the  resistance  offered  by  the  main- 
body,  or  when  the  latter  is  unable  farther  to  resist 
the  enemy's  efforts.  If  engaged  too  soon,  the  resist- 
ance offered  to  the  reserve  may  prevent  its  making  a 
decisive  blow  ;  if  not  engaged  in  time,  the  main-body 
may  be  too  far  exhausted  and  disorganized  to  rally. 

In  cases  where  the  reserve  forms  a  second  line,  to 
support  the  main-body,  it  should  approach  the  first 
line  when  it  becomes  engaged,  to  be  ready  to  replace 
it  when  circumstances  may  render  it  necessary.  The 
advanced-guard,  in  such  cases,  should  retire  to  the 
rear  to  act  as  a  reserve. 

9.  Attack. — In  the  attack  of  infantry,  the  same 
fundamental  dispositions  are  made  as  for  the  defensive. 
The  advanced-guard  will  not  throw  forward  its  skir- 
mishers until  they  are  near  enough  to  engage  the 
enemy.  The  line  of  skirmishers  should  be  strongly 
supported,  and  will  press  the  enemy  with  vigor  and 
without  relaxation.  If  the  force  engaged  be  small, 
the  main-body  will  regulate  its  movements  by  those 


INFANTRY.  13 

of  the  line  of  skirmishers ;  if  considerable,  the  reverse 
will  obtain. 

10.  The  main-body  and  reserve  follow  in  column 
the  advanced-guard,  preserving  the  requisite  intervals. 
The  columns  should  take  every  advantage  of  the 
ground  to  mask  their  movements,  getting  rapidly  over 
any  where  they  are  much  exposed  to  fire.  So  soon  as 
the  advanced-guard  is  checked,  it  will  fall  back  either 
on  the  flanks  of  the  columns,  or  to  the  rear;  and  the 
main-body  will  be  immediately  brought  into  action, 
either  by  deploying  and  opening  its  fire,  or  by  a  vig- 
orous charge  with  the  bayonet.  If  the  main-body 
falters  in  its  attack,  or  gives  any  signs  of  want  of 
resolution,  the  reserve  should  advance  at  once  through 
the  intervals,  and  make  a  vigorous  charge  with  the 
bayonet. 

11.  If  the  attack  by  the  main-body  is  made  with 
the  bayonet,  the  interval  between  it  and  the  columns 
of  the  reserve  may  be  lessened  to  80  or  100  paces. 
The  flanks  of  the  columns  of  attack,  and  the  inter- 
vals between  them,  should  be  occupied  by  skirmishers. 
This  is  an  important  precaution,  as,  by  forcing  the 
eneni}'  to  deliver  his  fire  before  the  columns  have 
reached  within  a  destructive  range,  the  main  obstacle 
to  their  onward  movement  will  be  removed. 

12.  Parsidt. — If  the  assailed  retires,  the  pursuit 
must  be  conducted  with  system  and  in  good  order. 
The  line  nearest  the  enemy  will  throw  forward  a  few 
troops  in  pursuit,  which,  in  most  cases,  will  be  pre- 
ceded by  skirmishers.  The  line,  in  close  order,  will 
follow  these  troops  until  it  attains  a  good  position  to 


14  INFANTRY. 

receive  the  enemy,  should  he  make  an  oifensive  move- 
ment, when  it  will  be  halted  and  formed  in  readiness 
for  action.  A  pursuit  by  infantrj-  alone  cannot  be 
pushed  far,  even  should  the  enemy  retire  without  any 
order,  or  show  of  resistance,  as  the  retreating  force 
will  soon  distance  their  pursuers. 

13.  Retreat. — When,  either  in  the  defensive,  or 
offensive,  it  becomes  necessary  to  retire,  the  first  point 
to  be  attended  to  is  to  withdraw  the  troops  engaged, 
either  to  a  good  position  to  their  rear,  where  they  can 
halt  and  face  the  enemy,  or  else  behind  the  line  in  their 
rear,  which  should  hold  the  assailants  in  check,  and 
allow  the  retreating  troops  to  fall  back  in  good  order. 
Having  fairly  got  disengaged,  dispositions  must  be 
promptly  made  to  withdraw  from  the  field.  This 
may  be  done  by  the  entire  force  moving  ofi^"  together, 
if  the  enemy  shows  no  disposition  to  follow  up  his 
success  with  energy;  or,  in  the  contrary  case,  by 
retiring  by  successive  portions;  the  line  which  with- 
draws falling  some  150  paces  to  the  rear  of  the  one 
b}'-  which  it  is  covered,  whilst  falling  back,  and  then 
forming,  to  cover  in  turn  the  retreat  of  the  latter. 

The  dispositions  made  in  the  retreat  will  depend 
entirely  upon  the  character  of  the  enemy's  pursuit, 
iind  the  features  of  the  ground.  It  will  usually  be 
made  in  columns,  covered  by  skirmishers,  if  the  pur- 
suit is  made  by  infantr}-  alone ;  if  by  cavalry,  the 
retreat  must  be  made  with  great  circumspection  ;  the 
troops  retiring  slowly  and  in  good  order,  adopting 
the  formation  against  cavalry  ;  never  hastening  the 
march,  unless  very  near  a  good  position  for  defence. 


IXFANTBY.  15 

which  should  ho  attained  as  rapidly  as  possible,  unless 
closely  pressed  by  the  cavalry. 

14.  If  it  be  necessary  to  continue  the  retreat  for 
some  marches,  under  the  eye  of  the  enemy,  a  rear- 
guard must  be  formed;  selecting,  from  a  fourth  to  a 
third  of  the  entire  force,  for  this  service.  The  main 
duty  of  the  rear-guard  is  to  hinder  the  enemy  from, 
pressing  too  closely  on  the  main-body;  and  it  should 
therefore,  under  no  circumstances,  allow  itself  to  be 
forced  back  upon  the  main-body.  The  dispositions 
adopted  by  the  rear-guard  will  depend  upon  the  fea- 
tures of  the  ground ;  its  rear  will  usuallj'  be  covered 
by  a  line  of  skirmif-hers.  The  rear-guard  will  keep 
within  g(jod  supporting  distance  of  the  main-body; 
and,  when  pressed  by  the  enemy,  the  latter,  whenever 
a  favorable  position  offers,  will  halt  and  form  ;  to 
cover  the  former,  and  force  the  enemy  to  greater  cir- 
cumspection. 

lo.  Measures  for  protracting  an  Engagement. — In 
the  attack,  asin  thedefonce,  it  may  frequently  become 
an  object  to  protract  an  engagement,  witliout  coming 
to  any  decisive  result,  either  for  the  purpose  of  hold- 
ing a  position  for  a  certain  time,  to  favor  other  ob- 
jects, as  the  arrival  of  reinforcements,  or  to  occupy 
an  adversary  upon  one  point,  whilst  a  decisive  blow 
is  preparing  on  another.  This  game  can  be  played 
only  upon  ground  favorable  to  alternations  from  the 
defensive  to  the  offensive,  and  should  only  be  intrusted 
to  troops  thoroughly  conversant  with  tl^e  duties  of 
skirmishers.  The  main-body  is  kept  some  two  thou- 
sand paces  to  the  rear  of  the  skirmishers  in  such  atiairs, 


16  INFANTRY. 

taking  advantage  of  the  ground,  and  making  suitable 
dispositions  of  the  troops  to  avoid  the  effects  of  the 
enemy's  artillery.  Small  columns  are  thrown  forward 
between  itself  and  the  troops  engaged,  which  take 
post  in  covered  ground,  to  be  at  hand  to  support  the 
skirmishers.  The  troops  engaged  should  be  promptly 
reinforced,  when  the  enemy  presses  onward ;  and 
attempts  should  be  made,  by  charging  him  in  flank, 
to  force  him  to  retire.  The  troops  in  action  should  be 
frequently  relieved,  and  the  opportunity  should  be 
seized,  when  the  fresh  troops  come  up,  to  make  an 
onward  movement  on  the  enemy  and  force  him  from 
any  points  he  may  have  gained. 

16.  Defence  against  Cavalry. — When  infantry  is 
threatened  by  cavalry,  the  proper  formation  to  repel 
its  charge  is  that  of  squares.  If  but  one  square  is 
formed,  it  must  rely  on  its  own  resources  to  beat  off 
the  enemy  ;  but  when  there  are  several  they  may 
give  [mutual  support,  by  bringing  a  flank  fire  from 
one  upon  a  force  advancing  on  either  of  the  two  con- 
tiguous to  it.  The  safety  of  infantry  against  cavalry 
will  depend  upon  the  preservation  of  perfect  coolness, 
good  order,  and  connection  in  the  ranks:  the  avoid- 
ance of  any  precipitate  movements  which  might  bring 
about  a  surprise  ;  and  the  husbanding  of  its  ammuni- 
tion, and  reservation  of  its  fire  until  the  enemy  is 
within  a  deadly  range.  Well  disciplined  infantry, 
whilst  in  position,  and  when  not  exposed  to  a  fire  of 
artillery,  may  securely  trust  to  its  own  resources  to 
repulse  the  best  cavalry,  so  long  as  it  adopts  the  proper 
precautions.     If  annoyed,  as  sometimes  may  happen. 


INFANTRY.  IT 

by  the  fire  of  a  few  horpemen,  advanced  to  draw  the- 
fire  of  the  squares,  it  will  be  better  to  throw  out  some- 
skirmishers,  ten  or  twelve  paces  from  the  squares,  to- 
keep  otF  such  attacks,  than  to  open  a  fire  from  the 
squares. 

17.  Defrncr,  ^'c,  agaiyist  Artilleiy. — Infantry  mny^ 
take  advantage,  eiiher  of  covers  presented  by  the  fea- 
tures of  the  ground,  or  of  occasionally  shifting  its 
position,  to  avoid  the  fire  of  artiller}-.  Very  slight 
undulations,  or  obstructions,  like  the  low  banks  along 
the  borders  of  ditches,  will  serve  to  cover  troops,  by 
causing  the  shot  to  rise  above  them.  If  no  covers  arc 
at  hand,  the  chances  of  casualties,  when  within  point- 
blank  range,  may  be  diminished  by  moving  forward^ 
or  backward  some  50  paces  ;  if  the  fire  be  a  ricochet, 
the  position  should  be  shifted  some  50  paces  to  the- 
right  or  left.  The  enemy's  batteries  may  be  annoyed, 
and  sometimes  forced  to  change  their  position,  by 
sending  out  good  marksmen,  who  advance  singly  to- 
within  some  250  paces  of  them,  where,  lying  down,, 
they  can  pick  off  the  officers,  men  and  horses. 

18.  Attack  of  Artillery — "Whenever  it  is  found  ne- 
cessary to  carry  a  battery  by  the  bayonet,  the  troops 
for  this  duty  are  divided  into  two  detachments,  one 
of  which  is  charged  with  capturing  the  guns,  and  the 
other  with  attacking  the  supports  of  the  battery. 

The  dispositions  made  by  the  detachment  which- 
moves  against  the  guns  will  be  the  usual  one  of  skir- 
mishers :  the  line  surrounding  the  battery,  and  open- 
ing their  fire  upon  it  when  within  about  250  paces,, 
taking  advantage  for  this  purpose  of  any  covers  to 


18  CAVALRY. 

screen  the  men.  The  supports  of  the  line  of  skir- 
mishers should  be  kept  well  to  the  rear  to  be  ready 
against  a  flank  movement  on  the  line.  If  this  ma- 
noeuvre succeeds  in  drawing  the  fire  of  the  guns,  and 
any  confusion  is  observed  among  the  men,  then  a 
rush  must  be  immediately  made  upon  them  with  the 
bayonet. 

The  detachment  against  the  supports  of  the  bat- 
tery will  make  its  dispositions  according  to  the  kind 
of  troops  which  comj^ose  the  sup})orts.  If  of  infantry, 
the  detachment  to  seize  the  guns,  divided  into  two 
portions,  will  advance  either  in  line  or  column,  as 
may  be  best,  on  the  flanks  of  the  line  of  skirmishers, 
gradually  getting  in  advance  of  it,  and  closing  on 
the  flanks  of  the  battery,  so  as  to  attack  the  supports 
in  flank  ;  or  else  they  may  keep  to  the  rear  of  the  line 
of  skirmishers,  in  order  to  tempt  the  supports  to 
move  forward,  and  thus  mask  the  tire  of  their  guns. 
If  the  supports  are  of  cavalry,  the  detachment,  di- 
vided into  two  columns,  will  follow  the  line  of  skir- 
mishers, in  rear  of  the  flanks,  to  cover  it  against  a 
•charge  of  the  cavalry. 

CAVALRY. 

19.  Positmi. — This  arm  is  usually  placed  in  the 
rear  of  the  infantry,  on  ground  favorable  to  its  ma- 
noeuvres, and  where  it  will  be  masked  from  fire  until 
the  moment  arrives  to  bring  it  into  action  ;  here,  it 
acting  on  the  defensive,  the  cavalry  watches  its  op- 
portunity to  support  the  other  troops,  driving  back 
the  enemy,  by  prompt  and  vigorous  charges,  when 


CAVALRY,  19 

these  are  hard  pressed  ;  or,  if  on  the  offensive,  biding 
its  time,  to  rush  upon  the  assailant,  and  compU'te  his 
destruction,  when  his  ranks  commence  to  waver  or 
show  signs  of  disorganization  from  the  assaults  of  the 
other  arms. 

20.  Fomnrttion. — Thohabitual  formation  of  cavalry 
for  the  attack  isn  ia  line  of  two  ranks,  with  a  reserve 
or  support  to  its  rear.  The  supports  are  indispensa- 
bly requisite  to  guard  against  those  chances  of  danger 
to  which  cavalry  is  particularly  exposed,  if  attacked 
in  turn,  whfn  in  a  state  of  partial  disorganization, 
after  a  successful  charge,  or  when  threatened  by  an 
offensive  movement  against  its  flanks.  The  supports 
offer  a  safeguard  gainst  either  of  these  dangers  ;  for, 
if  the  front  line  is  brought  up  by  the  enemy,  after  a 
successful  charge,  it  can  retire  and  rally  in  the  rear 
of  the  supports  ;  and  if  the  enemy  makes  a  movement 
against  the  flanks,  the  supports  placed  behind  them 
and  in  column,  can  form  and  anticijinte  the  enemy's 
charge.  For  the  foregoing  reasons,  cavalry  should 
not  give  way  to  a  headlong  pursuit  after  a  successful 
charge,  unless  its  supports  are  at  hand  ;  and,  in  cases 
where  a  charge  is  made  without  supports,  a  portion 
only  should  engage  in  pursuit,  the  rest  being  rallied 
to  form  a  support. 

21.  Cavalry  is  seldom  called  on  to  use  firearms. 
When  on  out-post  service,  or  acting  on  the  defensive 
on  ground  unfavorable  to  charging,  a  portion  of  the 
force  may  be  dispersed  as  flankers,  to  hold  the  enemy 
in  check  b}^  their  fire.  In  this  case  their  movements 
are  regulated  in  the  same  wav  as  other  skirmishers. 


20  CAVALRY. 

22.  Defence. — The  defensive  qualities  of  cavalry  lie 
in  the  offensive.  A  body  of  cavalry  which  waits  to 
receive  a  charge  of  cavalry,  or  is  exposed  to  a  fire  of 
infantry,  or  artillery,  must  either  retire  or  be  des- 
troyed. The  essential  quality  of  cavalry  renders  its 
services  invaluable  in  retreats  where  the  enemy  pur- 
sues with  vigor.  In  such  cases  it  should  be  held  in 
constant  readiness  to  take  advantage  of  every  spot 
favorable  to  its  action,  and,  by  short  and  energetic 
charges,  force  the  eneni}-  to  move  with  circumspec- 
tion. 

23.  AiiacV  Against  Infantry. — So  long  as  infantry 
maintains  its  position  firmly,  particularly  if  the 
ground  is  at  all  unfavorable  to  the  movements  of  cav- 
alry, the  chances  are  against  a  successful  attack  by  the 
latter.  Cavalrj-  should  therefore  either  wait  patiently 
until  a  way  is  prepared  for  its  action,  by  a  fire  of  artil- 
lery on  the  enemy's  infantry;  or  until  the  infantry 
has  become  crippled  and  exhausted  by  being  kept  in 
action  for  some  time;  or  else,  watching  its  opportu- 
nity, make  a  charge  whilst  the  infantry  is  in  motion, 
so  as  to  surprise  it  before  it  can  form  to  receive  the 
attack. 

Cavalry  should  direct  its  charge  on  that  point  of 
the  enemy's  infantry  where  it  will  itself  be  exposed 
to  the  least  column  of  fire.  If  the  infantry  is  in 
line,  the  charge  should  be  made  on  one  of  its  flanks; 
if  in  square,  on  one  of  the  angles  of  the  square;  and 
when  several  squares  are  formed,  so  as  to  afford 
mutual  support  by  their  fire,  selecting  the  squares  on 
the  flanks  as  most  vulnerable,  from  their  position. 


CAVALRY.  21 

24.  The  formation  usually  recommended  for  charg- 
ing against  squares,  is  that  of  three  squadrons  in  line 
at  double  distance;  the  leading  squadron  being  fol- 
lowed by  the  others,  either  directly  in  its  rear,  or 
else  the  squadrons  may  be  formed  in  echelon,  success- 
ively overlapping  each  other  by  about  the  front  of  a 
platoon.  The  angle  of  the  square  is  charged  by  each 
squadron  in  succession,  if  the  charge  of  the  one  pre- 
ceding it  fails,  the  repulsed  squadrons  each  wheeling 
to  the  right  or  left,  on  retiring,  to  leave  the  way  clear 
for  its  successor.  A  fourth  squadron  in  column  fol- 
lows those  in  line,  to  surround  the  square  and  make 
prisoners  if  it  should  be  broken  by  the  charge. 

25.  To  draw  the  fire  of  the  infantry  before  charg- 
ing, a  few  skillful  flankers  may  be  thrown  forward, 
to  open  a  fire  on  the  square.  Stratagem  may  also  bo 
tried,  by  moving  along  the  front  of  the  infantry,  at 
some  400  paces,  and  then  charging,  if  it  is  tempted 
to  throw  away  its  fire  at  this  distance.  In  an  attack 
where  several  squares  are  in  line,  if  one  fires  to 
second  another,  it  should  be  instantly  charged. 

20.  Attack  Against  Artillery.— In  attacks  against 
artillery,  the  detachment  of  cavalry  should  be  di- 
vided into  three  bodies — one-fourth  of  the  detach- 
ment being  charged  with  carrying  the  guns,  one-half 
to  attack  the  supporters  of  the  battery,  and  the  re- 
maining fourth  acting  as  a  reserve,  to  cover  the  par- 
ties in  advance  from  an  off'ensive  movement  against 
their  flanks  or  rear. 

The  party  to  secure  the  guns  make  their  attack  in 


22  ARTILLERY. 

dispersed  order,  and  endeavor  to  gain  the  flanks  of 
the  Lattery.  "When  the  battery  has  a  fair  sweep  over 
the  ground  along  which  they  must  advance,  they 
should,  by  manoeuvring  and  false  attacks,  try  to  con- 
fuse the  artillerists,  and  draw  their  fire  before  making 
their  charge. 

The  attack  against  the  support  of  the  battery  will 
be  directed  in  the  usual  manner — the  party  ma- 
noeuvring to  gain  their  flanks. 

ARTILLERY. 

27.  Position. — The  manner  of  placing  artillery, 
and  its  employment,  must  be  regulated  by  its  rela- 
tive importance  under  given  circumstances,  with 
respect  to  the  action  of  the  otlier  arms. 

In  the  defensive,  the  principal  part  is  usually  as- 
signed to  the  artillery;  and  the  positions  taken  up 
by  the  other  arms  will,  therefore,  be  subordinate  to 
those  of  this  arm.  In  offensive  movements,  the 
reverse  generally  obtains. 

28.  Defence. — In  defensive  positions  the  security 
of  the  batteries  is  of  the  last  importance.  Unless 
the  batteries  are  on  points  which  are  inaccessible  to 
the  enemy's  cavalry  and  infantry,  they  must  be 
placed  under  the  protection  of  the  other  troops,  and 
be  outflanked  by  them. 

As  in  the  defensive,  we  should  be  prepared  to  re- 
ceive the  enem}^  on  every  point ;  the  batteries  must 
be  distributed  along  the  entire  front  of  the  position 
occupied,  and  on  those  points  from  which  they  can 


ARTILLERY.  23 

obtain  a  good  sweep  over  Iho  avcnufs  of  approach  to 
it,  the  guns  being  masked,  when  the  ground  favors, 
from  the  enemy's  view,  until  the  proper  moment  ar- 
rives for  opening  their  fire. 

29.  The  distance  between  the  batteries  should  not 
be  much  over  000  paces,  so  that  by  their  fire  they  may 
cover  well  the  ground  intervening  between  them, 
and  afford  mutual  support;  the  light  guns  being 
placed  on  the  more  salient  points  of  the  front,  from 
their  shorter  range  and  greater  facility  of  ma- 
noeuvring; the  heavier  guns  on  the  more  retired 
points.  Guns  of  various  calibre  should  not  be  placed 
in  the  same  battory.  A  suflScient  interval  should 
also  be  left  between  batteries  of  different  calibre,  to 
prevent  the  enemy  from  judging,  by  the  variations 
in  the  effect  of  the  shot,  of  the  weight  of  metal 
of  the  batteries. 

Those  positions  for  batteries  should  be  avoided 
from  which  the  shot  must  pass  over  other  troops  to 
attain  the  enemy;  and  those  should  be  sought  for 
from  which  a  fire  can  be  maintained  until  the  enemy 
has  approached  even  within  good  musket-range  of 
them. 

Where  the  wings  of  a  position  are  weak,  batteries 
of  the  heaviest  calibre  should  be  placed  to  secure 
them. 

80.  A  sufiicient  number  of  pieces — selecting  for 
the  object  in  view  horse-artillery  in  preference  to 
any  other — should  be  held  in  reserve  for  a  moment 
of  need,  to  be  thrown  upon   any  point  where  the  en- 


:24  ARTILLERY. 

«my's  progress  threatens  danger,   or  to  be  used  in 
•covering  the  retreat. 

31.  The  collection  of  a  large  number  of  pieces  in  a 
.single  battery,  is  a  dangerous  arrangement,  particu- 
larly at  the  outset  of  an  engagement.  The  exposure 
of  so  many  guns  together  might  present  a  strong  in- 
ducement to  the  enemy,  to  make  an  eifort  to  carry 
the  battery,  a  feat  the  more  likely  to  succeed  as  it  is 
difficult  either  to  withdraw  the  guns  or  change  their 
position  promptly,  after  their  fire  is  opened;  and  one 
•which,  if  successful,  might  entail  a  fatal  disaster  on 
the  assailed,  from  the  loss  of  so  many  pieces  at  once. 

32.  In  all  defensive  positions,  the  ammunition 
should  be  most  carefully  husbanded.  A  fire  should 
never  be  opened  until  the  enemy  is  within  good 
range ;  and  when  once  opened^  be  continued  with 
perseverance  and  coolness  up  to  the  last  moment  in 
-which  it  can  be  made  effective. 

33.  Attack. — In  the  outset  of  oflfensive  movements, 
.good  positions  should  be  selected  for  the  heaviest 
pieces,  from  which  they  can  maintain  a  strong  fire 
on  the  enemy  until  the  lighter  pieces  and  the  columns 
of  attack  are  brought  into  action.  These  positions 
should  be  taken  on  the  flanks  of  the  ground  occupied 
by  the  assailant,  or  on  the  centre,  if  more  favorable 
to  the  end  to  be  attained.  In  all  cases,  wide  inter- 
vals should  be  left  between  the  heavy  batteries  and 
the  other  troops,  in  order  that  the  latter  may  not 
suffer  from  the  return  fire  which  the  assailed  will 
probably  open  on  the  batteries.  Tor  the  same  reason, 
care  should  be  taken  not  to  place  other  troops  behind 


POSITIONS . 


25 


a  point  occupied  b}^  a  batterj-,  where  they  would  be 
exposed  to  the  return  fire  of  the  assailed  ;  when  this 
cannot  be  avoided,  the  troops  should  be  so  placed  as 
to  be  covered  by  any  undulation  of  the  ground,  or 
else  be  deployed  in  line  to  lessen  the  effects  of  the 
shot. 

34.  The  artillery  which  moves  with  the  columns 
of  attack,  should  be  divided  into  several  strong  bat- 
teries, as  the  object  in  this  case  is  to  produce  a  deci- 
sive impression  upon  a  few  points  of  the  enemy's 
line,  by  bringing  an  overwhelming  fire  to  bear  upon 
these  points.  These  batteries  should  keep  near 
enough  to  the  other  troops  to  be  in  safety  from  any 
attempts  of  the  assailed  to  capture  them.  Their 
usual  positions  will  be  on  the  flanks  and  near  the 
heads  of  the  columns  of  attack,  the  intervals  between 
the  batteries  being  sufficient  for  the  free  manoeuvres 
of  the  other  troops  in  large  bodies.  The  manoeuvres 
of  these  batteries  should  be  made  with  promptitude, 
so  that  no  time  may  be  lost  for  the  action  of  their 
fire.  They  should  get  rapidly  over  unfavorable 
ground  to  good  positions  for  firing,  and  maintain 
these  as  long  as  possible,  detaching,  in  such  cases,  a 
few  pieces  to  accompany  the  columns  of  attack.  Irk 
all  the  movements  of  the  batteries,  great  care  should 
be  taken  not  to  place  them  so  that  they  shall  in  the 
least  impede  the  operations  of  the  other  troops. 
C 


CHAPTER  II. 

POSITIONS. 

35.  Among  the  most  important  modern  additions 
to  the  military  art,  is  that  of  topography,  or  the 
study  of  the  natural  features  of  positions,  with  a 
view  to  turn  them  to  account  in  the  first  dispositions 
for  battle,  and  its  various  succeeding  phases. 

36.  It  is  only  by  this  study  that  the  coup  d'ceil 
militab^e,  or  the  art  of  disposing  troops  in  harmony 
with  the  ground  on  which  they  are  to  act,  can  be 
brought  to  any  high  degree  of  perfection,  whatever 
may  be  the  natural  gifts  of  the  individual. 

37.  This  study  is  not  altogether  of  modern  origin. 
Among  the  ancients,  some  of  the  Greek  generals 
have  given  evidence  of  a  feeling  of  its  importance, 
as  in  the  examples  of  Epaminondas,  Xenophon, 
Alexander,  and  particularly  of  Philopcemen.  The 
Komans,  although  having  adopted  an  order  of  battle 
which  lent  itself  better  to  varied  features  of  ground 
than  that  of  the  Greeks,  still  showed  but  little 
knowledge  of  this  branch,  until  after  the  wars  with 
Pyrrhus,  when  the  art  of  Castrametation  underwent 
some  change  with  them. 

38.  The   tactics  which   grew   out   of   the   French 


POSITIONS.  27 

Revolution  gave  to  topography  great  prominence; 
and  no  general  perhaps  has  ever  displayed  more  con- 
summate attainments  in  this  respect  than  Napoleon, 
whose  descriptive  memoirs — particularly  of  the  Alps 
— are  considered  as  models  for  all  graphic  writings, 
presenting  with  clearness  and  comprehensiveness,  a 
picture  that  the  mind's  eye  cannot  fail  to  seize, 

39.  The  term  position  is  applied  to  any  ground 
taken  up  by  a  body  of  troops  either  to  make,  or  to 
receive  an  attack. 

40.  To  select  a  position  understandingly,  an  officer 
must  possess  a  thorough  practical  knowledge  of  the 
tactical  combinations  of  the  different  arms,  their  re- 
spective qualifications  for  the  offensive  and  defensive, 
and  of  the  adaptation  of  ground  to  their  particular 
manoeuvres. 

41.  In  choosing  a  position,  the  ground  must  be  ex- 
amined not  only  with  respect  to  its  peculiar  suitable- 
ness to  the  object  in  view,  but  also  with  reference 
to  the  influence  of  that  in  its  vicinity  upon  this 
object. 

42.  The  first  point  to  be  looked  to  is  the  extent  of 
the  position.  This  should  be  such  that,  deduction 
made  of  the  advanced  posts  and  of  the  reserve,  its 
front  and  flanks  shall  present  an  unbroken  line  of 
troops,  from  which  a  close  and  well-sustained  fire 
can  be  brought  upon  all  points  by  which  these  can 
be  approached. 

In  estimating  the  front  of  a  position,  an  allow- 
ance of  about  180  yards  may  be  made  for  each  bat- 
talion, from  600  to  700  strong;  about  GO  yards  for 


28  POSITIONS. 

each  squadron  of  horse  of  48  files,  the  necessary  in- 
tervals between  these  units  being  ineludod  in  this 
estimate;  and  from  12  to  20  yards  for  the  interval 
between  the  pieces  of  a  battery. 

In  estinijiting  the  depth,  an  !ilK)wance  of  GOO  to 
800  yards,  at  least,  should  be  made  from  the  front 
to  the  rear,  in  order  that  the  two  lines  and  the  re- 
serve may  be  posted  in  suitable  relative  juisitimis  for 
good  support. 

43.  The  position  should  offer  no  features  by  which 
the  prompt  movement  of  troops  from  one  point  to 
another,  for  mutual  support,  might  be  obstructed. 
Its  debouches  to  the  front  for  otfensive  movements, 
as  well  as  those  to  its  rear  in  case  of  retreat,  should 
be  ample.  It  should  be  beyond  the  ei!ective  can- 
non range  of  commtinding  heiglits,  both  on  its  front 
and  flanks. 

44.  The  flunks  being  the  weakest  points  of  a  bod}' 
of  troops,  must  be  secured  from  being  turned  or  at- 
tacked, by  resting  them  upon  some  strong  natural 
feature  of  the  jiosition,  as  a  river,  preciitice,  Sec, 
whieh  the  enemy  can  neitluT  turn  nor  seize  upon; 
or  else  on  some  point  that  will  aflord  sufficient 
means  of  prolonging  the  resistance  to  eimble  rein- 
forcements to  reach  it  in  time,  as  an  iiitrenehed  vil- 
lage,* a  field  work,  &v.  AVlien  the  flanks  cannot 
be  secured  in  either  of  tlu'se  ways,  the}-  must  be 
strengthened    by   an    accumulation    of    troops    upon 


"See  Chapters   VII,  IX,  X,  and  XI.  Mahan's  Field  Fortifi- 
CRtiou,  on  Intrcnchnu'nt.s,  Ac,  of  I'ositions,  &c. 


POSITIONS.  29 

them,   to  offer  a  vigorous  resistance   to    the  enemy 
should  he  attempt  an  attack. 

45.  PosHioiis  for  i/ie  Defensive. — When  a  position 
is  taken  up  to  maintain  a  strictly  defensive  attitude, 
the  natural  features  of  its  front  should  be  of  a 
character  to  prevent  an  enemy  from  approjicliing  in 
good  order,  and  to  enable  the  assailed  to  dispute 
with  advantage  every  foot  of  ground.  The  enemy, 
moreover,  should  not  be  able  to  turn  the  position 
when  it  is  unavoidably  exposed  to  this  manoeuvre, 
without  great  risk  to  his  own  safety,  by  an  offensive 
movement  of  the  assailed  on  his  flanks  or  rear. 

46.  The  manner  of  disposing  and  handling  troops 
in  a  defensive  position  will  mainly  depend  upon  its 
natural  features.  The  only  rule  that  can  be  laid 
down  is,  to  post  the  different  arms  upon  ground  best 
adapted  to  their  respective  tactics,  and  in  such  rela- 
tive positions  as  to  afford  mutual  support,  and  not 
impede  each  other's  movements. 

47.  The  obstructions  on  the  front  and  flanks  of 
the  position  will  be  occupied  by  the  advanced-guard, 
formed  of  light  troops  of  each  arm,  if  the  ground 
is  favorable  to  their  combined  action,  for  the  pur- 
pose of  observing  the  enemy  and  holding  him  in 
check  if  he  makes  an   onward  movement. 

48.  The  main  body  of  the  infantry  will  occupy 
every  point  between  the  obstacles  on  which  the  flanks 
rest  in  such  a  manner  tliat  no  intervals  shall  be  pre- 
sented through  which  the  enemy  can  penetrate 
without  being  exposed  to  a  close  and  powerful  line 
of  fire. 


so  POSITIONS. 

49.  The  artillery  will  be  placed  on  those  points 
whore  it  can  have  a  commanding  view  of  the  ground 
in  advance  of  the  position,  and  sweep  by  its  fire  the 
approaches  of  the  enemy,  both  in  front  and  flank. 

50.  The  cavalry,  posted  in  rear  of  the  infiintry, 
should  occupy  ground  upon  which  it  can  make  effect- 
ive charges  to  support  the  infantry  when  pressed  by 
the  enemy. 

51.  In  posting  troops  on  obstructed  ground,  care 
should  be  taken  not  to  place  them  on  points  where 
they  can  only  be  idle  spectators  of  the  combat, 
either  from  the  impossibility  of  their  being  ap- 
proached by  the  enemy,  or  from  their  not  being 
able  to  join  the  enemy  at  the  proper  moment.  In 
like  manner,  those  points  should  be  avoided  where, 
from  obstacles  in  their  rear,  the  safety  of  the  troops 
might  be  compromised  in  case  of  retreat.  When- 
ever it  becomes  necessary  to  dispute  the  possession 
of  the  latter  class  of  points  with  the  enemy,  the 
avenues  to  the  rear  must  be  occupied  by  detachments 
of  suitable  strength,  to  secure  the  retreat  of  the 
troops  in  advance. 

52.  In  order  that  the  necessary  manoeuvres  may  be 
promptly  executed,  without  confusion,  and  to  avoid 
offering  a  mark  that  might  attract  the  enemy's  fire, 
and  occasion  useless  exposure,  no  more  troops  should 
be  placed  on  any  point  than  its  defence  may  indis- 
pensably require;  and  whenever  it  becomes  requisite 
to  strengthen  a  weak  point,  by  an  accumulation  of 
troops  upon  it,  every  advantage  should  be  taken  of 
the  undulations,  or  other  accident  of  the  ground,  to 


POSITIONS.  31 

mask  them  from  the  enemy's  fire  until  the  moment 
arrives  for  bringing  them  into  action. 

53.  The  vaUie  of  obstacles,  as  supports  for  the 
flanks,  or  as  obstructions  in  the  front,  or  rear  of  a 
position,  is  altogether  relative,  and  depends  on  the 
number  of  troops.  A  very  slight  obstacle  on  a  flank, 
which  will  serve  to  hold  the  enemy  in  check  but  a 
few  minutes,  may  answer  all  the  purposes  of  a  small 
body  of  troops,  by  enabling  them  to  make  such 
changes  in  their  dispositions  as  the  nature  of  the  case 
may  call  for  ;  whereas  a  large  body,  under  like  cir- 
cumstances, might  be  overwhelmed  on  their  flank 
before  they  could  make  suitable  manoeuvres  to  prevent 
it.  A  broken,  obstructed  country  to  the  rear,  pre- 
senting few  and  narrow  avenues  of  retreat,  might  be 
fatal  to  a  large  body  of  troops  forced  to  retire  in  the 
face  of  an  enemy ;  whereas,  to  a  small  body,  the  same 
features  of  ground  might  present  many  points  where 
strong  positions  could  be  momentarily  taken  up  to 
hold  the  enemy  in  check,  and  force  him  to  pursue 
slowly  and  circumspectly. 

54.  When  it  is  found  that  the  enemy  is  moving 
upon  the  position,  the  advanced-guard  makes  suitable 
dispositions  to  hold  him  in  check,  by  occupying  with 
its  skirmishers  all  the  obstacles  in  its  front  and  flanks ; 
when  forced  to  retire  upon  the  main  position,  these 
troops  concentrate  more  and  more  as  they  approach 
it,  taking  care  not  to  mask  the  fire,  or  impede  the 
action  of  the  main -body. 

55.  The  artillery  will  only  open  its  fire  when  the 
enemy  is  within  a  destructive  range;  it  will  then  con- 


32  POSITIONS. 

centrate  its  efforts  against  the  columns  of  attack ;  not 
replying  to  the  fire  of  the  enemy's  batteries,  unless 
it  becomes  urgent  to  do  so,  from  their  effects  upon  the 
other  troops.  The  artillery  will  maintain  its  posi- 
tions with  pertinacity,  as  long  as  possible,  watching 
its  opportunities,  during  the  different  phases  of  the 
action,  to  support  and  succor  the  other  arms;  as,  for 
example,  when  it  becomes  necessary  to  replace  the 
front  line  of  infantry  by  the  reserve,  to  advance  the 
cavalry,  when  the  other  arms  are  obstinately  disput- 
ing a  decisive  point,  or  when  the  enemy  abandons 
the  attack.  The  great  mobility  of  field-artillery, 
owing  to  more  recent  improvements,  places  it  in  the 
power  of  this  arm  to  act  with  great  boldness  in  sup- 
port of  the  others.  The  ground  over  which  the  guns 
may  be  required  to  move,  for  this  purpose,  should  be 
well  examined,  before  the  attack  commences,  by  the 
officer  commanding  the  artillery,  that  no  delays  may 
occur  in  bringing  them  into  action  upon  the  proper 
point  at  the  proper  moment. 

56.  The  main-body  of  the  infantry  should  not  open 
its  fire  until  it  can  be  thrown  in  with  deadly  effect. 
If  the  enemy,  unchecked  by  the  fire,  still  pushes  for- 
ward, he  must  be  met  by  a  charge,  either  in  line,  or 
column,  from  the  point  menaced;  a  portion  of  the 
reserve  immediately  closing  the  interval  left  by  the 
troops  making  the  charge. 

57.  The  reserve  should  not  be  brought  into  action 
unless  its  co-operation  is  indispensable  for  obtaining 
some  decisive  result;  as  forcing  the  enemy  back  from 
some  important  point  from  which  the  main-body  has 


POSITIONS.  33 

"been  compelled  to  retire,    or  covering  the  retreat  o 
the  main-body,  until  it  can  rally  and  form  again  in 
the  rear. 

58.  The  cavalry  must  be  in  readiness,  from  its 
position,  to  act  promptly,  either  against  any  attempt 
upon  the  flanks  of  the  infantry,  or  to  profit  by  any 
faults,  or  disorder  of  the  enemy.  If  the  enemy 
throws  forward  small  detachments  without  suj)port- 
ing  them  properly,  or  advances  his  main  line  without 
securing  his  flanks,  or  shows  symptoms  of  confusion 
in  his  infantry,  the  opportunity  should  not  be  lost  by 
the  cavalry.  In  all  movements  of  the  infantry, 
either  in  advancing  or  retiring,  the  cavalry  should 
be  at  hand  to  cover  it  from  a  sudden  attack. 

59.  If  the  enemy  is  beaten  off,  pursuit  is  made, 
either  by  the  cavalry  or  by  detachments  of  infantry, 
according  to  the  features  of  the  ground,  whilst  the 
main-body  is  promptly  rallied,  and  placed  in  position 
to  receive  the  cnem}'  should  the  attack  be  renewed. 

60.  The  dispositions  for  a  retreat  will  depend  upon 
the  circumstances  under  which  it  may  be  made, 
^hen  the  troops  retire  by  successive  lines,  the  greater 
portion  of  the  artillery  should  always  be  in  the  line 
nearest  the  enemy,  and  between  the  battalions ;  the 
remainder  being  in  the  second  line,  ready  to  repulse 
any  flank  attack.  The  cavalry  is  posted  in  the  rear 
of  the  second  line,  either  upon  one,  or  both  wings, 
to  be  in  readiness  for  a  charge  at  any  moment. 

61.  "When  the  entire  force  moves  oft'  together,  the 
rear  is  secured  by  a  rear-guard  of  the  best  troops, 
composed  of  one  or  several  arms,  as  the  circumstances 


34  POSITIONS. 

of  the  ground  may  require.  The  rear-guard  will 
profit  by  the  features  of  the  ground  to  check  the 
enemy,  but  will  be  careful  not  to  lose  time,  by  pro- 
longing unnecessarily  the  resistance  on  any  point, 
as  this  might  bring  the  main  force  of  the  enemy 
upon  it. 

62.  Great  circumspection  should  be  shown  in 
retreating  through  obstructed  ground,  in  watching 
the  enemy's  movements  on  the  flanks,  and  in  timely 
securing  defiles  leading  to  the  rear,  to  prevent  the 
enemy  from  cutting  off  the  retreat. 

63.  Attack. — An  enemy  may  be  made  to  abandon 
a  defensive  position,  either  by  driving  him  from  it, 
or  by  manoeuvring  to  turn  it,  and  so  force  him  to 
fall  back  to  secure  his  line  of  communications.  In 
attempting  the  latter  plan,  it  should  not  be  forgotten 
that  the  assailant  is,  to  a  greater  or  less  degree, 
exposed  to  the  same  danger  as  his  adversary,  who,  if 
active  and  enterprising,  may  turn  the  tables  on  him- 

The  celebrated  battle  of  Eivoli,  in  which  a  portion 
of  the  Austrian  force  turned  the  flank  of  the  French 
position,  and  was  there  obliged  to  lay  down  their 
arms, — Napoleon,  using  on  that  occasion,  when  these 
troops  were  discovered  in  his  rear,  one  of  those  mag- 
ical expressions,  '■'•Those  are  o^«•s,"  b}'' which  he  so 
well  understood  how  to  electrify  the  soldier, — is  a 
remarkable  example  on  this  head.  The  battle  of 
Buena-Vista,  where  the  Mexicans,  after  turning  the 
flank  and  gaining  the  rear  of  our  troops,  barely 
escaped  a  similar  fate,  is  another;  whilst  that  of 
Cerro-Gordo  is  as  remarkable  for  the  masterly  and 


POSITIONS.  35 

admirable  manner  in  which  the  enemy's  position  was 
turned  and  carried,  although  resting  upon  ground 
which  was  fairly  deemed  impracticable  by  him, 

64.  In  planning  the  attack  of  a  position,  attention 
must,  in  the  first  place,  be  directed  to  those  points  in 
which  its  main  strength  resides,  and  for  this  reason 
termed  the  key-points,  the  loss  of  which  will  force 
the  assailed  to  retire.  As  the  assailed  will  probably 
put  forth  all  his  efforts  to  maintain  these  points,  their 
attack  will  demand  corresponding  exertions  on  the 
part  of  the  assailant,  and  should  be  made  only  with 
troops  of  the  best  character. 

65.  In  the  second  place,  those  points  must  be  care- 
fully examined,  which,  by  their  fire,  flank  the  posi- 
tion, as  an  advance  upon  its  front  cannot  be  made 
without  great  losss  and  hazard  of  success  until  the 
assailed  is  dislodged  from  them. 

66.  Finally,  points  which  are  weak,  either  from 
the  features  of  the  ground,  or  from  a  faulty  disposi- 
tion of  the  troops;  as  approaches  which  are  badly 
swept  by  the  fire  of  the  assailed;  an  exposed  flank 
with  too  few  troops;  or  a  point  where  they  are  not 
properly  placed  for  mutual  support. 

67.  The  main  effort  of  the  assailant  is  seldom 
directed  against  more  than  one  point  of  the  position  ; 
that  one  being  usually  selected  which,  if  carried,  will 
lead  to  the  most  decisive  results;  as,  for  example,  one 
of  the  flanks,  when  not  resting  upon  any  strong- 
obstacles.  But  the  main  attack  is  always  combined 
with  demonstrations  upon  some  other  point,  both 
with  a  view   of  deceiving  the  assailed  as  to  the  real 


S6  POSITIONS. 

point  of  attack,  and  to  prevent  him  from  withdraw- 
ing troops  from  other  points  to  strengthen  the  one 
menaced.     • 

68.  These  demonstrations,  or  false  attacks  are,  in 
some  cases,  made  h^^  the  advanced-guard  of  the  assail- 
ant, after  driving  in  that  of  the  assailed;  in  others, 
by  a  special  detachment.  In  the  latter  case,  the 
detachment  should  seldom  exceed  a  fourth  of  the 
entire  force,  and  should  be  composed  of  troops  of  each 
arm,  both  for  its  own  safety  against  any  offensive 
movement,  and  to  present  to  the  assailed  a  likelihood 
of  danger. 

69.  The  advanced-guard,  composed  of  light  troops 
of  each  arm,  commences  the  attack,  by  driving  in  the 
iidvanced  posts  of  the  assailed,  keeping  within  sup- 
porting distance  of  the  main-body,  and  occupying 
such  points  as  may  be  necessary  to  cover  its  manoeu- 
vres, or  to  secure  its  retreat  in  case  of  failure.  If  a 
reconnoissance  of  the  position  has  not  been  previously 
made,  it  will  be  effected  under  cover  of  the  move- 
ments of  the  advanced-guard. 

70.  The  artillery  takes  position  where  it  can  silence 
the  batteries  of  the  assailed,  and  prepare  the  way  for 
the  advance  of  the  other  troops.  The  infantry  is 
usually  formed  in  two  columns  for  the  real  attack; 
the  leading  column  being  sometimes  preceded  by  an 
advance.  A  part  of  the  artillery  advances  either  in 
one  body,  or  echelon,  on  the  flank  of  the  column  of 
attack,  the  leading  section  preceding,  by  about  a 
hundred  paces,  the  head  of  the  column  of  attack.  If 
the  column   of  attack  deploys   to   open   its  fire,   the 


POSITIONS.  37 

artillery  moves  to  one  of  its  flanks  and  seconds  it  by 
a  fire  of  case  shot.  If  the  column  charges  with  the 
bayonet,  the  advanced  portion  of  artillery  retires  to 
the  position  of  that  in  the  rear,  to  be  ready  to  cover 
the  infantry  by  its  fire,  if  the  attack  fails.  The  cav- 
alry follows  in  the  rear  of  the  infantr}^  to  secure  its 
flanks  from  any  offensive  movement,  and  to  hold  the 
assailed  in  check,  should  he  attempt  a  pursuit  after 
beating  off  the  infantry. 

71.  If  the  attack  is  successful,  the  artillery  and  the 
greater  portion  of  the  infantry  are  immediately 
formed  in  good  order,  to  be  in  readiness  for  anj- 
emergency,  the  pursuit  being  left  to  the  cavalry  and 
some  detachments  of  infantry.  In  case  of  failure, 
the  troops  engaged  fall  back  under  cover  of  those  in 
their  rear ;  the  artillery,  by  a  well-directed  fire,  and 
the  cavalry  by  opportune  charges,  holding  the  enemy 
in  check,  until  order  is  re-established  in  the  retiring 
troops,  as  a  preliminary  to  a  retreat,  or  to  a  renewal 
of  the  attack. 

72.  Pos'itmis  in  Obstructed  Ground. — This  term 
may  bo  applied  to  localities  where  the  ground,  al- 
though level,  is  cut  up  by  ditches,  hedges,  broken 
roads,  «&c.,  which  obstruct  the  free  movement  of 
troops. 

73.  Positions  of  this  character  are  more  favorable 
to  the  defensive  than  the  offensive.  As,  from  the 
nature  of  the  case,  connected  movements  are,  for  the 
most  part,  impracticable,  the  commander  will  find  it 
difficult  to  direct  the  engagement,    and   must    rely 


38  POSITIONS. 

upon  the  judgment  and  skill  of  his  subordinates  for 
its  successful  issue. 

74.  The  general  disposition  of  the  troops  will  be 
in  dispersed  order.  There  will  be  but  few  opportu- 
nities for  the  action  of  cavalry  ;  and  the  artillery- 
can  seldom  find  positions  to  act  in  mass.  The  light 
cavalry  and  light  pieces  may  be  placed  in  front, 
wherever  they  can  act  with  advantage,  and  support 
the  infantry.  The  supports  and  reserves  should  be 
kept  well  to  the  rear  of  the  troops  engaged,  to  be 
ready  to  meet  the  enemy,  should  he  attempt  to  turn 
the  flanks — a  manoeuvre  to  which  obstructed  ground 
is  frequently  favorable.  The  heav}'  cavalry  and 
heavy  artillery  take  post  to  the  rear,  at  any  point 
which  may  offer  a  good  position  to  cover  the 
retreat. 

75.  The  attack,  like  the  defense,  will  be  mainly 
conducted  by  the  infantry  and  some  light  pieces, 
the  infantry  acting  as  skirmishers,  and  the  artillery 
being  employed  to  force  any  opening  that  may  offer 
for  the  advance  of  the  infantry.  Whenever  the  ar- 
tillery gets  a  good  position,  it  should  endeavor  to 
keep  it  as  long  as  practicable.  The  cavalry  can  effect 
but  little,  as  the  enemy's,  even  if  inferior  in  strength, 
may  watch  its  opportunities,  from  behind  obstacles, 
to  make  short  and  successful  charges.  The  artillery 
not  in  action  will  occupy  the  roads  at  points  to  the 
rear  most  suitable  for  covering  the  retreat,  if  the 
attack  fails. 

76.  In  positions  of  a  mixed  character,  presenting 
alternations  of  open  and  obstructed  ground,  the  troops 


POSITIONS.  39 

on  the  defensive  must  guard  with  great  care  every 
accessible  point  at  which  the  assailant  can  dthouclie 
from  the  obstructed  upon  the  open  portions.  A 
strong  fire  of  heavy  artillery  should  be  brought  to 
bear  upon  these  points;  and  cavalry  should  be  posted 
in  places  where  they  can  be  masked  from  the  enemy's 
fire,  and  be  at  hand  to  charge  the  assailant,  as  he  at- 
tempts to  dlhouchc.  These  efforts  should  be  seconded 
by  the  bayonets  of  the  infantry,  if  a  favorable  op- 
portunity occurs. 

77.  The  obstructed  ground  to  the  rear  must  be 
strongly  occupied,  to  secure  the  retreat,  by  posting 
light  troops  under  the  cover  aftbrded  by  the  skirts  of 
woods,  by  ditches  bordered  with  trees  and  hedges, 
&c.;  and  advantage  must  be  taken  of  every  small  de- 
file, to  dispute  the  ground  inch  by  inch. 

78.  In  the  phases  of  engagements  in  positions  of 
this  character,  the  defense  must  frequently  be  accom- 
modated to  the  troops  at  hand,  as  in  the  confusion 
of  the  most  orderly  retreat,  in  such  cases,  it  is  im- 
practicable to  preserve  that  connection  between  the 
movements  of  the  different  arms  which  would  be 
best  for  mutual  support.  If  the  assailant,  by  discon- 
nected movements,  or  a  disorderly  pursuit,  laj's  him- 
self open  to  an  attack,  it  should  be  made  and  pressed 
with  vigor,  or  not  at  all. 

79.  In  the  attack  of  mixed  positions,  the  supports 
and  reserves  should  be  kept  well  to  the  rear,  whilst 
the  troops  are  engaged  in  the  obstructed  portions,  to 
guard  against  oftensive  movements  on  the  flanks  by 
the  assailed.     Those  engaged  should  close  in  as  the 


40  POSITIONS. 

ground  opens,  to  prepare  to  dhhouche  upon  it  in  force, 
in  ■which  operation  the  infantry  must  be  covered  by 
the  cavalry  and  artillery.  In  advancing  upon  the 
obstructed  ground,  the  waj-  must  be  prepared  for  an 
attack  with  the  bayonet,  by  a  heavy  fire  of  artil- 
lery, directed  particularly  upon  the  most  accessible 
points. 

Operations  of  this  character  demand  extreme  pru- 
dence and  forethought.  Every  forward  movement 
must  be  made  with  great  caution  ;  every  point  gained 
must  be  well  secured,  and  its  possession  disputed  with 
tenacity  if  the  assailed  attempts  to  repossess  himself 
of  it.  In  no  other  way  can  the  troops  engaged  be 
kept  well  in  hand,  and  be  prevented  from  the  confu- 
sion and  danger  of  a  hasty  pursuit. 

80.  Positions  in  Forests. — In  occupying  a  forest 
defensively',  the  skirts  and  the  openings  to  it,  as 
roads j  &c.,  must  be  strongly  guarded  by  a  line  of 
skirmishers  with  its  supports  and  reserves,  and  by 
artillery  so  placed  as  to  sweep  in  flank  those  points 
which  are  most  accessible,  as  the  salient  portions, 
and  the  roads.  The  line  of  skirmishers,  besides  avail- 
ing themselves  of  the  natural  covers  of  the  position, 
as  trees,  ravines,  &c.,  will  form  abatis  in  front  of  the 
more  accessible  points;  and  the  cannon,  in  like  man- 
ner, should  be  covered  by  epaulments,  when  suitable 
means  are  at  hand. 

81.  The  main-bodj-  will  take  up  a  central  position, 
on  ground  favorable  to  the  defense,  covering  its 
flanks  by  marshes,  or  other  like  obstacles,  strength- 
ening, if  requisite,  its  front  by  abatis  ;  and  guarding 


POSITIONS.  41 

all  the  approaches  by  a  suitable  disposition  of  its 
heavy  artillery.  The  points  of  junction  of  roads 
leading  to  the  front  should  be  strongly  occupied  and 
strengthened,  when  practicable,  by  field-works, 

82.  The  space  between  the  skirts  of  the  wood  and 
the  central  position  should  be  obstinately  disputed, 
advantage  being  taken  of  any  clearings  that  may  oc- 
cur, to  post  light  pieces  and  cavalry  in  ambush  near 
them,  to  drive  back  the  assailant,  as  he  debouches  on 
the  open  ground. 

83.  As  cavalry  can  only  act,  under  such  circum- 
stances in  small  detachments,  the  main  body  of  it 
will  take  position  to  the  rear,  to  cover  the  retreat  of 
the  other  troops  from  the  forest,  and  check  the  assail- 
ant in  debouching  from  it. 

84.  The  attack  will  be  directed  on  the  salient  por- 
tions, and  upon  the  entrances  of  the  forest;  first,  by 
a  heavy  fire  of  artillery,  to  drive  back  the  infantry, 
and  force  the  guns  of  the  assailed  to  retire.  This 
will  be  followed  up  by  a  rapid  attack  in  line,  with 
the  bayonet  on  those  points,  whilst  demonstra- 
tions are  made  against  the  others  occupied  by  the 
assailed. 

If  the  attack  with  the  bayonet  succeeds,  the  troops 
must  secure  the  points  seized  before  pushing  for- 
ward in  pursuit,  placing  some  cannon  and  troops 
at  the  most  suitable  points,  to  cover  the  retreat, 
should  the  assailed  make  a  strong  oflfensive  move- 
ment. 

85.  The  pursuit  should  be  made  firmly  but  cau- 
tiously, the  skirmishers  leading  and  rooting  out  the 

D 


42  POSITIONS. 

assailed  from  every  strong  cover  ;  some  field-pieces 
and  'a  column  of  infantry,  each  secured  by  skir- 
mishers on  their  flanks,  following  upon  the  main 
road  with  a  detachment  of  cavalry  well  to  the  rear, 
but  within  supporting  distance,  to  act  according  to 
the  emergency. 

86.  If  the  assailed  makes  a  firm  stand  at  his  cen- 
tral position,  an  attack  upon  his  front  will  not 
only  be  bloody,  hut  of  doubtful  success ;  an  attempt 
should  therefore  be  made  to  turn  his  flanks,  whilst 
he  is  occupied  in  front  by  demonstrations  and  false 
attacks. 

If  the  assailed  retires,  the  pursuit  will  be  made  by 
some  light  pieces,  followed  by  the  infantry  and  cav- 
alry, the  difl^erent  arms  being  employed  according  to 
the  varying  circumstances  of  the  ground. 

87.  Positions  iji  Mountains. — The  best  and  only 
safe  system  of  defense  in  mountainous  positions  is  to 
occupy  with  the  main-body  a  central  point,  at  which 
the  principal  passes  meet,  and  be  always  in  a  state  of 
readiness  to  act  off'ensively  against  the  enemy,  on 
whatever  point  he  may  advance,  throwing  forward 
strong  detachments  in  the  principal  passes  to  observe 
the  enemy,  and  offer  a  vigorous  resistance,  in  order 
to  force  him  to  develop  his  plan  of  attack.  So  soon 
as  it  is  ascertained  on  what  point  the  principal  force 
of  the  enemy  is  concentrated,  the  main-body  will 
advance  from  the  central  position  to  a  point  where 
it  will  be  secure  from  a  flank  attack,  to  act  offen- 
sively.    The  detachments  on  the  other  passes  will  act 


POSITIONS.  43 

on  the  flanks  of  the  enemy  by  cross-roads,  if  they 
can  do  so,  or  will  try  to  fall  on  his  rear. 

88.  When  circumstances  constrain  to  a  passive  de- 
fense, a  position  must  be  taken  up  cither  across  or 
along  the  valle}-,  which  will  best  secure  the  flanks, 
and  cover  the  line  of  communication. 

89.  The  attack  in  mountainous  positions  is  con- 
ducted on  the  same  principle  as  the  defense.  The 
assailed  must  be  threatened  on  every  point,  by  throw- 
ing columns  into  the  several  passes,  whilst  the  main- 
body  advances  along  one  of  the  principal  lines.  If 
the  assailed  maintains  a  strict  defensive,  the  several 
columns  unite  and  make  the  attack ;  if  he  assumes 
the  offensive,  the  principal  columns  must  be  rein- 
forced, and  an  attempt  be  made  to  throw  detach- 
ments on  his  flanks  and  rear,  to  force  him  to  fall 
back.  The  flanks  of  the  troops  in  column,  advanc- 
ing in  the  valleys,  must  be  covered  by  detachments 
of  skirmishers  on  the  heights. 

90.  The  attack  will  be  made  mainly  by  the  in- 
fantry, as  skirmishers.  A  strong  line  of  fire  must  be 
maintained  with  great  pertinacity;  the  supports 
must  be  kept  well  to  the  rear ;  the  reserve  and  main- 
body  holding  the  points  of  junction  of  the  roads 
leading  to  the  front,  and  not  advancing  until  the  en- 
gagement is  well  under  way. 

Great  prudence  must  be  shown  in  advancing,  as 
the  troops  engaged  are  liable  at  any  moment  to  an 
attack  on  their  flank.  If  the  assailed  attempts  this 
manoeuvre,  the  line  of  skirmishers  must  hold  on  per- 
tinaciously to  the  ground  gained,  whilst  the  supports 


44  POSITIONS. 

•display  and  keep  the  enemy  in  check,  until  the  re- 
serves can  be  brought  up  to  repel  the  attack  with  the 
bayonet.  As  the  line  of  skirmishers  force  back  the 
assailed,  the  main-body  follows  in  column  along  the 
valley,  its  flanks  being  secured  by  skirmishers  on  the 
heights.  If  opposed  by  the  assailed,  the  main -body 
must  attack  with  vigor,  to  carry  its  point  promptly, 
as  those  engaged  in  front  have  no  chance  of  being 
relieved. 

91.  There  is  here  seldom  any  field  of  action  for 
cavalry  ;  the  main  portion  of  this  force  will  there- 
fore be  kept  to  the  rear,  occupying  the  points  of 
junction  of  the  passes.  Small  detachments  of  dra- 
goons may  occasionally  do  good  service  in  front, 
making  charges,  or  fighting  on  foot,  as  the  opportu- 
nity ofi'ers. 

92.  The  artillery  can  seldom  find  positions  ofi"  the 
roads.  A  few  light  pieces,  which  can  be  placed  in 
position  on  the  heights  and  be  well  served,  may  fre- 
quently produce  very  decisive  results.  When  it  is 
necessary  to  open  a  way  for  the  main-body  to  ad- 
vance, at  points  of  peculiar  strength,  it  should  be 
done  by  the  heaviest  pieces.  The  horse-artillery  will 
usually  be  attached  to  the  troops  charged  with  making 
a  demonstration  on  the  flanks  of  the  enemy's  posi- 
tion, through  the  secondary  passes. 

93.  As  the  assailed  will  probably  obstruct  the 
passes  by  abatis  or  other  obstacles,  a  detachment  of 
engineer  troops  should  accompany  each  column, 
being  kept  always  at  hand  to  clear  away  the  ob- 
structions. 


POSITIONS.  45 

94.  Positions  near  Rivers. — Positions  may  be  se- 
lected near  rivers,  either  for  the  defensive,  to  pre- 
vent an  enemy  from  passing,  or  for  the  offensive,  to 
force  a  passage.  ^ 

95.  A  position  for  guarding  a  river  should  be  se- 
lected at  some  central  point,  from  which  the  troops 
can  be  rapidly  marched  to  oppose  the  enemy  wher- 
ever he  may  attempt  to  cross.  Small  posts  are 
established  along  the  course  of  the  river,  at  the 
most  suitable  points  for  observing  the  enemy,  and 
communicating  to  the  rear  intelligence  of  his  move- 
ments. 

So  soon  as  it  is  known  that  a  decided  attempt  is 
to  be  made  at  any  point,  the  cavalry,  with  some  bat- 
teries of  horse-artillor}',  will  move  to  oppose  it.  If, 
on  reaching  the  point,  it  is  found  that  the  enemy  has 
succeeded  in  throwing  over  a  portion  of  his  forces, 
they  must  be  vigorously  attacked  by  successive 
charges  of  cavalry,  and  by  a  persevering  fire  of  the 
artillery.  If  the  ground  is  obstructed  so  that  the 
cavalry  cannot  charge,  the  dragoons  should  dismount 
and  act  as  skirmishers.  Positions  should  be  selected 
by  the  artillery,  where  it  can  take  that  of  the  enemy 
on  the  opposite  bank  in  flank,  the  object  being  to  si- 
lence it  or  to  draw  off  its  fire,  to  enable  the  cavalry 
to  act.  Everything  here  depends  on  lengthening  the 
affair,  and  preventing  the  enemy  from  reinforcing 
the  troops  that  have  passed,  until  the  main-body  can 
arrive  from  the  central  position,  to  support  the  cav- 
alry and  artillery  engaged. 

96.  The  passage  of  a  river  in  the  face  of  an  enemy 


46  POSITIONS. 

is  an  operation  of  extreme  difficulty,  and  every 
means  should  therefore  be  employed  to  deceive  the 
enemy  and  draw  off  his  attention  from  the  point 
selected  for  the  passage.  The  bridge-train  and  other 
requisites  being  in  a  state  of  readiness,  the  night- 
time is  selected  as  most  favorable  to  a  successful 
issue. 

The  point  selected  to  pass  a  river  in  the  face  of  an 
enemy,  should  combine  several  properties,  as  a  posi- 
tion, to  give  the  assailant  a  decided  advantage  over 
the  assailed.  The  river  at  this  point  should  be  nar- 
row, so  that  the  bridge  may  be  rapidly  constructed; 
the  banks  should  form  a  bend  towards  the  assailant, 
to  enable  him  to  plant  his  batteries  in  a  position  to 
concentrate  their  fire  on  that  part  of  the  ground  on 
the  opposite  bank  where  the  troops  must  form,  care 
being  taken  that  these  batteries  are  not  exposed  to 
enfilading  fire  from  those  assailed,  within  the  proper 
range  for  this  fire;  the  ground  near  the  landing  place 
on  the  ojiposite  shore  should  present  covers,  in  order 
that  the  troops  passed  over  in  boats,  before  the  bridge 
is  ready,  may  not  be  exposed  to  the  artillery  and  cav- 
alry of  the  assailed,  and  may  be  enabled  to  maintain 
their  position  until  reinforced  by  the  main-body. 
If  there  are  islands  near  the  point  of  landing,  from 
which  a  fire  of  artillery  and  infantry  can  be  brought 
to  bear  on  the  assailed,  they  should  be  occupied  by 
infantry  and  some  field-pieces,  particularly  if  they 
are  wooded,  or  offer  other  covers. 

97.  In  moving  upon  the  point,  silence  and  perfect 
order  should  be  preserved  throughout.     Batteries  of 


POSITIONS.  47 

the  heaviest  guns  are  placed  at  the  most  suitable 
points,  to  bring  a  converging  fire  to  bear  upon  the 
approaches  to  the  landing  on  the  opposite  shore. 
Light  troops  are  thrown  over  in  boats,  to  occupy  the 
ground  in  advance  of  the  landing,  which  troops,  if 
discovered  by  the  advanced  posts  of  the  enemy, 
should  bo  rapidly  reinforced.  So  soon  as  the  bridge 
is  ready,  an  advanced-guard,  composed  of  troops  of 
all  arms,  will  pass  and  take  position,  to  cover  the 
formation  of  the  main-body.  The  advanced-guard 
will  mainly  keep  on  the  defensive,  acting  with  great 
prudence,  not  to  oflfer  any  advantage  to  the  enemy, 
its  task  being  to  gain  time  for  the  rest  of  the  forces 
to  pass. 

98.  The,  order  in  which  the  main-body  should 
pass  must  be  regulated  by  the  character  of  the 
ground  and  the  resistance  oflTered  by  the  enemy.  Usu- 
ally, a  portion  of  the  heavy  guns  follow  the  ad- 
vanced-guard, and  take  position  to  check  the  enemy ; 
and  these  are  followed  by  the  main-body  of  the  in- 
fantry, the  main-body  of  the  cavalry  with  its  bat- 
teries of  horse-artillery  passing  last.  In  other  cases, 
it  may  be  best  to  throw  over  the  cavalry  and  horse- 
artillery  before  the  other  troops. 

99.  The  task  imposed  upon  the  batteries  of  cover- 
ing the  passage,  is  of  the  greatest  moment.  Careful 
attention  should  be  given  to  the  management  of  their 
fire,  directing  it,  in  all  cases,  upon  that  portion  of 
the  enemy's  force  whose  presence  is  most  threat- 
ening. 

100.  A  retreat  across  a  river,  when  pressed  by  the 


48  POSITIONS. 

enemy,  is  of  all  operations  the  most  difficult,  and  re- 
quires every  auxiliary  means  to  save  the  retreating 
force  from  destruction.-  The  point  selected  for  the 
passage  should  have  the  same  requisites  as  one  for 
the  offensive,  and  its  natural  strength  should  be  in- 
creased by  field  works,  in  order  that  the  enemy  may 
be  kept  from  pressing  too  hotly  upon  the  rear  of  the 
troops  that  pass  the  last. 

In  a  retreat  of  this  character,  all  the  usual  strata- 
gems for  deceiving  an  enemy  nxust  be  resorted  to  be- 
fore commencing  the  movement,  so  that  time  suffi- 
cient may  be  gained  for  making  the  necessary  dispo- 
sitions to  secure  the  point  of  passage,  as  well  as  to 
gain  a  march  or  two  in  advance.  The  heavy  artil- 
lery should  be  dispatched  at  an  early  moment  to  the 
rear,  to  take  a  position  on  the  opposite  shore,  for 
covering  the  passage.  The  rest  of  the  force,  cov- 
ered by  a  strong  rear-guard,  formed  of  the  best 
troops,  will  effect  their  passage  generally  in  an  in- 
verse order  to  ihat  followed  in  one  for  the  offen- 
sive. 

One  of  the  worst  dangers  to  be  guarded  against  is 
the  confusion  caused  by  hurry.  To  avoid  this,  the 
arrangements  for  the  march  of  the  different  bodies 
should  be  made  with  the  greatest  care,  so  that 
each  may  reach,  at  the  proper  moment,  the  point 
of  passage. 


CHAPTER  III. 

ADVANCED-GUARDS    AND   ADVANCED-POSTS. 

101.  To  keep  an  enemy  in  ignorance  of  the  state 
of  our  forces  and  the  character  of  our  position  is  one 
of  the  most  indispensable  duties  in  war.  It  is  in 
this  way  that  we  oblige  him  to  take  every  possible 
precaution  in  advancing  ;  forcing  him  to  feel  his  way 
step  by  step,  and  to  avoid  risking  his  own  safety  in 
hazarding  those  bold  and  rapid  movements  which, 
when  made  against  a  feeble  or  an  unprepared  enemy, 
lead  to  the  most  brilliant  results. 

102.  This  object  is  effected  by  placing  between  the 
position  occupied  by  the  main  force  and  the  presumed 
direction  of  the  enemy,  a  body  detached  from  the 
main  force,  but  acting  always  with  reference  to  it, 
termed  an  Advanced- Guard. 

This  term  is  used  for  any  body  of  troops  so  separa- 
ted from  the  main-body,  whatever  its  strength  and 
composition,  and  whether  the  troops  be  in  position  or 
on  a  march. 

103.  For  a  large  force,  the  advanced-guard  is  ne- 
cessarily composed  of  troops  of  all  arms,  its  strength 
being  proportioned  to  that  of  the  main  force  ; — the 
more  or  less  resistance  of  an  independent  character  it 
maybe  required  to  make; — and  the  greater  or  less 


50  POSITIONS. 

extent  it  may  be  found  necessary  to  embrace  by  its 
advanced-posts,  on  the  front  and  flanks,  to  watch  and 
anticipate  every  movement  of  the  enemy. 

The  proportion  of  the  advanced-guard  to  the  main- 
body  may  vary  from  a  third  to  a  fifth  of  the  total 
force.  In  armies  of  some  strength,  or  large  corps-(V 
arniee,  particularly  where  the  nature  of  the  country 
requires  a  wide  development  of  advanced-posts,  the 
larger  proportion  is  demanded  ;  as  at  least  one-third 
or  even  one-half  of  its  strength  will  be  required  for 
the  advanced-post  service.  In  a  small  force  of  two 
or  three  thousand  men,  one-fifth  will  usually  be  all 
that  can  be  well  spared  for  the  same  purposes. 

104.  Our  purpose,  in  all  cases,  should  be  to  keep 
the  enem}'-  in  a  state  of  uncertainty  as  to  our  actual 
force  and  movements,  and  this  can  be  eflfected  only 
by  keeping  constantly  between  him  and  our  main- 
body  a  force  of  sufficient  strength  to  offer  an  obstinate 
resistance,  if  necessary,  to  every  attempt  he  may 
openly  make  to  gain  information,  and  even  to  act 
ofFensively  against  him,  when  occasion  offers,  so  as 
to  keep  him  in  doubt  as  to  the  actual  character  and 
number  of  troops  before  him  ;  the  old  military  axiom 
being  always  kept  in  mind,  that  "  a  swot^d  opporttme- 
ly  draron  fr^equently  keeps  another  hack  in  its  scabbard." 

105.  In  all  defensive  positions,  the  advanced-guard 
and  its  advanced-posts  should  retire  slowly  but  cir- 
cumspectly, so  that  the  main-body  npy  have  time  to 
take  all  its  defensive  measures.  In  the  offensive,  the 
attack  of  the  advanced-guard  should  be  decided  and 
vigorous;  pressing  upon  the  enemy  at  every  point, 


rosiTiONs.  51 

and  leaving  nothing  undone  to  demoralize  him,  by 
the  confusion  which  so  often  follows  from  an  impetu- 
ous onset. 

106.  AVhilst  in  position,  the  advanced -guard  should 
take  advantage  oi  the  natural,  or  other  obstacles  on 
its  front  and  flanks  which  are  within  supporting  dis- 
tance, to  strengthen  itself,  and  gain  supports  for  its 
advanced-posts.  In  this  way,  its  means  of  resistance, 
whether  acting  offensively,  or  otherwise,  may  be 
greatly  augmented.  Ground  of  this  character,  taken 
up  by  the  troops,  should  not  be  abandoned  without 
very  cogent  reasons  for  it ;  since,  should  circumstan- 
ces bring  about  a  forward  movement,  it  might  cost 
more  to  regain  what  was  given  up  than  to  have  main- 
tained it  obstinately  at  first. 

107.  The  ground  to  be  taken  by  an  advanced-guard, 
and  embraced  within  its  advanced-posts,  should  be 
carefully  chosen.  To  take  position  where  the  move- 
ments of  the  enemy  can  be  well  watched,  whilst  our 
own  troops  are  kept  concealed,  and  not  liable  to  a 
sudden  attack,  either  in  front  or  flank,  are  the  desid- 
erata in  such  cases.  If,  in  following  this  guide,  it 
should  lead  to  a  development  of  advanced-posts  which 
would  be  too  weak  at  any  point  for  a  tolerable  resist- 
ance, there  remains  but  the  alternative  to  retire  slowly 
before  the  enemy, — taking  care  that  he  do  not  slip 
behind  the  out-posts  and  their  supports, — ujDon  some 
central  point  to  the  rear,  where  the  advanced-posts, 
united  to  the  troops  in  reserve,  may  make  a  good 
stand,  and  from  which,  if  the  chances  are  favorable, 


52  POSITIONS. 

they  may  advance  upon  the  enemy,  and  make  him 
pay  dearly  for  his  temerity. 

108.  In  all  affairs  of  advanced-guards  great  circum- 
spection is  to  be  shown,  both  by  ttie  officer  in  com- 
mand of  the  advanced-guard,  in  throwing  forward 
fresh  troops  to  strengthen  a  point  assailed,  as  well  as 
on  the  part  of  the  general-in-chief,  in  sustaining  the 
advanced-guard  by  weakening  his  main-body.  These 
are  points  that  can  only  be  decided  upon  the  spot. 
The  safer  rule,  in  all  cases,  is  not  to  weaken  the  main 
defence,  or  main  attack,  by  detaching  from  it,  to  sup- 
port a  feeble  point.  If  the  force  engaged,  under  such 
circumstances,  does  not  suffice  for  its  own  defence,  it 
is  best  for  it  to  fall  back  in  time,  and,  taking  position 
with  the  main  body,  endeavor,  by  their  combined 
efforts,  to  turn  the  scales  of  victory  in  their  favor. 

109.  The  duties  of  advanced-guards  being  so  much 
more  frequently  to  feel  and  occupy  an  enemy,  pre- 
paratory to  some  decisive  blow  by  the  main  body, 
than  to  engage  him  with  a  view  to  follow  up  any 
advantage  gained,  it  follows,  as  a  matter  of  course, 
that  they  should  be  composed  of  the  most  efficient 
and  active  light  troops  at  the  general's  disposal. 
Such  troops,  in  the  hands  of  a  bold,  energetic,  but 
prudent  leader,  will  be  the  right  arm  of  an  army. 
Prompt  on  all  occasions,  never  taken  at  fault,  they 
keep  the  enemy  constantly  occupied,  harrass  him 
with  fatiguing  precautions  to  secure  his  flanks  and 
rear,  whilst  their  own  force  is  kept  relieved  from 
these  annoyances,  and  always  fresh  for  any  great 
emergency. 


POSITIONS.  63 

110.  Advanced  Posts. — The  duties  of  the  advanced 
posts  are  the  same  whether  the  troops  are  stationary, 
or  in  movement:  they  are,  1.  To  keep  a  good  look- 
out for  the  enemy,  and  when  in  his  immediate  pres- 
ence to  take  all  means  to  be  accurately  informed  of 
his  strength,  position  and  movements;  2.  Should  the 
enemy  advance,  to  hold  him  in  check  long  enough 
to  give  the  main  body  ample  time  to  be  prepared  for 
his  attack. 

111.  By  a  faithful  discharge  of  these  duties,  the 
whole  army  can,  at  all  times,  and  under  all  circum- 
stances, be  kept  in  a  state  of  readiness  for  action, 
without  subjecting  the  soldier  to  any  fatigue  beyond 
the  ordinary  physical  endurance  of  a  well-developed 

.manhood,  as  but  a  small  portion,  comparatively,  of 
the  forces  present  is  required  to  watch  over  the  safety 
of  the  rest,  and  can  therefore  be  frequently  relieved, 
so  that  every  one  may  have  time  sufficient  for  the 
repose  demanded  after  extraordinary  exertions. 

112.  The  object  being  to  secure  the  front  and  flanks 
of  the  position,  occupied  by  the  main  body,  from  any 
attempt  either  to  reconnoitre,  or  attack  it,  the  detach- 
ments which  form  the  advance  posts  must  be  so  dis- 
tributed as  to  embrace  all  the  avenues  by  which 
the  enemy  can  approach  the  position.  The  system 
adopted,  in  most  services,  to  effect  this  object,  consists 
of  two  or  three  concentric  lines  of  posts,  disposed  in 
a  fan-shaped  order.  The  exterior  line,  which  forms 
the  Old-Posts,  embraces  a  wide  circumference,  and 
by  means  of  a  chain  of  Setiilnels,  posted  in  advance. 


54  POSITIONS. 

prevents  any  one  from  penetrating  to  the  rear  between 
the  posts,  without  being  seen. 

113.  The  second  line,  which  is  one  of  Gi^and- Guards, 
embraces  a  narrower  circumference  than  the  line  of 
out-posts,  occupying  the  more  important  avenues 
from  the  out-posts  to  the  interior,  so  as  to  be  in  posi- 
tion to  support  the  out-posts  in  case  of  necessity,  and 
to  receive  them  if  driven  in, 

114.  The  interior  line  consists  of  several  strong 
detachments,  termed  Pickets,  posted  upon  the  main 
avenues  to  the  position.  They  serve  as  supports  to 
the  two  exterior  lines,  upon  which  they  rally  if  forced 
to  retire  before  the  enemy. 

115.  Besides  these  dispositions  for  security,  Pa-  . 
iroles  are  kept  up  between  the  line  of  posts,  to 
keep  the  one  informed  of  the  state  of  the  other ;  and 
also  between  the  out-posts  and  chain  of  sentinels,  to 
see  that  the  duties  of  the  latter  are  well  performed, 
and  to  search  any  ground  not  brought  well  under  the 
eyes  of  the  sentinels.  The  whole,  in  this  way  forms  a 
connected  system,  for  observing  the  enemy  and  for 
mutual  support  in  case  of  attack, 

116.  The  duties  of  the  out-posts,  and  of  the  grand- 
guards  which  form  their  supports,  are  strictly  those 
of  observation.  If  attacked,  they  offer  no  resistance 
farther  than  to  enable  them  to  feel  the  enemy  per- 
fectly, and  never  lose  sight  of  him.  The  task  of 
holding  the  enemy  in  check  by  a  vigorous  resistance, 
so  as  to  procure  sufficient  time  for  the  main  body  to 
make  its  dispositions  for  battle,  is  consigned  to  the 
pickets. 


PosiTiO]srs.  55 

117.  Tlio  ground  taken  up  by  the  advanced-posts 
will  depend  on  the  capabilities  which  its  natural  fea- 
tures offer  for  defence,  on  the  number  and  character 
of  the  approaches  it  presents  to  an  enemy  for  attack- 
ing the  front,  or  flanks  of  the  position  occupied  by 
the  main  body,  and  upon  the  facilities  it  may  afford 
for  communication  between  the  posts. 

118.  Out-Posts. — The  position  of  the  out-posts,  with 
respect  to  the  main  body,  will  be  regulated  by  the 
more  or  less  broken  character  of  the  country.  As  a 
general  rule,  the  moan  distance  may  be  taken  at 
about  two  miles.  The  line  occupied  by  these  posts 
should  take  in  all  the  approaches  to  the  front  and 
flanks  of  the  main  position.  When  a  position  is  to 
be  held  for  some  time,  or  is  taken  up  after  a  battle, 
the  out-posts  may  be  thrown  farther  in  advance,  to 
procure  greater  repose  and  security  for  the  main  body. 

119.  The  ground  on  which  the  line  of  outposts  is 
established  should  be  carefully  examined,  with  a  view 
both  to  observation  and  defence.  As  far  as  practica- 
ble, those  points  should  be  selected  for  posts  which  pre- 
sent some  natural  advantages  for  the  defence  ;  will 
screen  the  troops  from  the  enemy's  view,-  and  enable 
them  to  watch  all  his  movements.  Whenever  the 
features  of  the  ground  do  not  offer  natural  obstacles 
to  cover  the  posts,  artificial  means  of  a  slight  charac- 
ter should  be  resorted  to.  The  flanks  of  the  line 
should  rest  upon  strong  natural  obstacles  ;  when  such 
cannot  be  found,  without  giving  the  line  too  great  an 
extent,  these  points  must  be  secured  by  strong  pickets 
of  cavalry  or  infantry,  thrown  back  to  form  crotch- 


56  POSITIONS. 

ets,  from  which  patroles  must  be  constantly  kept  up 
on  the  flanks,  in  the  presumed  direction  of  the  enemy. 

120,  The  strength  of  each  out-post,  and  the  distance 
from  one  to  the  other,  will  be  regulated  by  the  fea- 
tures of  the  ground,  and  the  number  of  sentinels  or 
vedettes  that  each  post  must  throw  out.  The  posts 
should,  as  far  as  practicable,  be  within  sight  of  the 
grand-guards  to  which  they  belong,  and  the  sentinels 
of  their  respective  posts.  When  the  ground  does  not 
permit  this  arrangement,  sentinels  should  be  placed 
at  intermediate  points,  to  communicate  promptly 
whatever  may  happen  at  the  line  of  posts,  or  of  sen- 
tinels, to  the  rear.  Posts  of  infantry  should  not,  as  a 
general  rule,  be  placed  farther  apart  than  600  paces ; 
nor  their  sentinels  more  than  300  paces  in  advance  of 
the  posts.  Those  of  cavalry  may  be  some  1500  paces 
apart,  and  their  vedettes  from  600  to  800  paces  in 
advance.  The  strength  of  each  post  should  be  calcu- 
lated at  the  rate  of  four  men  for  each  sentinel,  or 
vedette. 

121.  Sentinels. — The  sentinels  and  vedettes  form  a 
chain  in  advance,  and  are  posted  on  points  from 
which  they  can  best  watch  the  enemy,  without  being 
seen  by,  or  exposed  to  him,  in  any  way.  As  one  of 
their  main  duties  is  to  prevent  any  one  from  passing 
their  chain,  they  should  be  so  placed,  with  respect  to 
each  other,  that  they  can  see  all  the  ground  between 
their  respective  posts,  and  be  able  to  stop  any  one 
who  may  attempt  to  pass  between  them.  At  night 
and  in  misty  weather,  the  sentinels  should  be  doubled 
and  be  drawn  in  nearer  to  the  out-posts. 


ADVANCED-GUARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS.        57 

Whenever  it  may  be  deemed  necessary  to  jiost 
sentinels  on  points  beyond  the  line  of  out-posts,  they 
should  be  furnished  by  posts  detached  in  advance  of 
the  line. 

122.  &7'aml- Guards. — As  the  grand-guards  furnish 
the  out-posts,  and  serve  as  their  supports,  not  more 
than  one-third  of  their  force  should  be  taken  for  the 
out-posts.  The  grand-guards  are  posted  on  the  prin- 
cipal avenues  leading  to  the  detachments  on  which 
they  are  to  fall  back,  if  driven  in ;  and  when  of 
infantry,  about  200  paces,  and  of  cavalry,  600  to  800 
paces,  in  the  rear  of  the  out-posts.  The  points  which 
they  occupy  should  be  selected,  both  to  secure  them 
from  the  enemy's  view,  and  to  give  a  ready  commu- 
nication between  them  and  their  respective  out-posts. 
No  difficult,  or  broken  ground,  should  lie  between 
the  grand-guards  and  their  out-posts ;  if  any  such 
occur,  particularly  if  it  be  of  a  nature  to  offer  facili- 
ties to  an  enemy  to  penetrate  to  the  rear,  the  whole 
should  be  posted  on  the  farther,  or  hither  side  of  it> 
and  in  preference  in  the  latter  position,  if  by  it  tho 
chain  of  post  can  be  preserved  unbroken. 

123.  Pickets. — The  main  detachments  or  pickets, 
which  form  tho  supports  to  the  grand-guards  and  out- 
posts, occupy  the  principal  avenues  to  tho  position  of 
the  main  body.  As  their  duty  is  to  hold  the  enemy 
in  check,  the  points  which  they  take  up  should  be 
susceptible  of  a  good  defence ;  such,  for  example,  as 
villages,  defiles,  «fcc.  "Whenever  these  advantages  are 
not  found  at  hand,  resort  should  he  had  to  any  tempo- 
rary obstacles,  as  abatis,  &c.,  which  can  be  readily 

£ 


68        ADVANCED-GUARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS. 

procured,  to  place  the  troops  under  shelter.  The 
points  thus  occupied  should,  as  a  general  rule,  be 
about  midway  between  the  line  of  out-posts  and  the 
position  of  the  main  body. 

124.  Small  posts  should  be  thrown  forward  by  the 
pickets,  between  their  position  and  the  line  of  grand- 
guards  ;  both  for  the  greater  security  of  the  detach- 
ments, and  as  supports  to  the  grand-guards.  In  like 
manner,  when  the  line  of  pickets  is  of  considerable 
extent,  intermediate  posts  must  be  established,  to 
keep  open  a  communication  between  them. 

125.  No  pains  should  be  spared  to  obstruct  the 
approaches  of  the  enemy  to  the  points  occupied  by 
the  pickets,  particularly  those  which  lead  to  the  flanks, 
leaving  open  such  only  as  will  oblige  the  enemy  to 
attack  under  the  most  unfavorable  circumstances, 
and  if,  between  the  advanced  posts  and  the  main 
body,  a  defile,  or  other  unfavorable  pass  should  occur, 
which  the  enemy,  by  turning  the  line  of  the  advanced 
posts,  might  seize  upon,  and  thus  cut  off  their  retreat, 
it  should  be  occupied  by  a  strong  detachment,  both  to 
prevent  such  a  manoeuvre,  and  to  favor  the  retreat  on 
th6  main  body. 

126.  Strength  of  the  Advanced- Posts. — The  entire 
strength  of  the  advanced  posts,  as  well  as  the  relative 
strength  of  the  pickets,  grand-guards,  and  out-posts, 
will  depend  upon  the  character  of  the  ground  cov- 
ered by  them,  as  being  more  or  less  open,  and  pre- 
senting more  or  less  facilities  for  circumscribing  the 
appr  oachcs  of  the  enemy  to  the  main  position.  It 
rarely  occurs   that  sufficient   troops  can  be  detached 


ADVANCED-GUARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS.        59 

to  cover   all  the  accessible  ground,  and  perform  the 
duties  in  a  thorough  manner. 

127.  The  strength  of  each  picket,  and  the  kind  of 
troops  of  which  it  is  composed,  will  depend  on  the 
degree  of  resistance  to  be  offered  to  the  enemy's 
attack,  and  the  character  of  the  position  occupied. 
In  most  cases,  where  a  vigorous  defence  is  called  for, 
they  will  consist  of  troops  of  all  arms,  and  an  aggre- 
gate of  several  hundred  men.  The  grand-guards, 
out-posts,  and  patroles,  should  not  exceed  one-third 
the  strength  of  the  pickets  to  which  they  belong. 
They  will  be  composed  of  cavalry,  or  infantry, 
according  to  the  more  or  less  broken  features  of  the 
ground. 

128.  It  rarely  occurs  that  artillery  is  placed  at  the 
out-posts.  Whenever  it  happens  that  a  piece,  or  two, 
may  be  deemed  necessary,  to  sweep  sdme  passage,  or 
defile,  in  advance  of  the  line  of  out-posts,  theguns 
must  be  protected  by  a  strong  post,  to  insure  their 
safety  in  a  retreat. 

129.  If,  from  the  character  of  the  ground,  the  out- 
posts are  mainly  of  infantry,  some  cavalry  should 
always  be  attached  to  them,  to  patrol  in  advance  of 
the  position,  and  to  convey  intelligence  to  the  rear  of 
what  may  be  passing  in  the  neighborhood  of  the  out- 
posts. 

130.  When^the  advanced  posts  cover  an  advanced- 
guard,  the  commanding  officer  of  the  whole  should 
take  a  position,  with  his  artillery  and  the  main  body 
of  his  command,  at  some  central  point,  in  the  rear  of 
the  pickets,    in  order  to  be  ready  to  support  them  if 


60        ADVANCED-GTTAKDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS. 

hard  pressed  by  the  enemy.  The  choice  of  this  posi- 
tion is  an  object  of  the  greatest  importance,  as  the 
safety  of  the  advanced-posts,  as  well  as  that  of  the 
main  body,  may  depend  upon  the  degree  of  judgment 
shown  in  this  selection. 

131.  So  soon  as  the  advanced-posts  have  taken  up 
their  stations,  instructions  should  be  given  to  the 
oflScers  of  the  different  posts,  with  respect  to  the 
points  upon  which  they  are  to  fall  back,  in  case  of 
being  forced  in,  the  lines  of  communication  they 
must  retire  by,  and  the  position  they  must  take  up, 
in  joining  the  supports  to  which  they  respectively 
belong. 

132.  Duties  of  Office)^  commanding  an  Out-Post. — 
An  officer  in  command  of  any  of  the  out-posts  must 
be  capable  of  untiring  vigilance  and  activity,  to 
perform  the  various  duties  which  devolve  upon  him. 
He  should  be  provided  with  a  good  map  of  the  coun- 
try, a  telescope,  and  writing  materials. 

133.  He  will  thoroughly  reconnoitre  the  ground 
upon  which  he  is  to  dispose  his  command,  and  also  as 
far  in  advance  as  circumstances  will  admit,  question- 
ing closely  any  inhabitant  he  may  find.  After  tak- 
ing up  his  position,  he  should  go  forward,  with  the 
half  of  his  command,  and  post  each  sentinel  himself. 
If,  however,  he  relieves  another  in  the  command,  and 
deems  it  advisable  to  make  any  changes  in  the  dispo- 
sitions of  his  predecessors,  he  should  promptly  report 
the  facts  to  the  commanding  ofiicer  in  his  rear. 

134.  When  the  officer  finds  that  the  enemy  is  not  in 
his  immediate   neighborhood,  he  should  endeavor  to 


ADVANCED-GUARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS.        61 

feel  his  way  cautiously  towards  him  by  patrols;  and 
when  in  immediate  presence,  he  should  omit  no  means 
to  watch  the  enemy's  movements,  and  from  the  occur- 
rences of  the  moment,  such  as  noises,  the  motion 
of  clouds  of  dust,  camp  fires,  conflagrations,  «&c., 
endeavor  to  divine  what  is  passing  in  his  camp,  and 
his  probable  intentions. 

135.  Accurate  written  reports  should  be  promptly 
Bent  to  the  oflicer  in  command,  in  the  rear,  on  all 
these  points.  The  reports  should  be  legibly  written, 
and  should  clearly,  but  coticisely,  state  what  has  fallen 
under  the  oflScer's  eye,  what  he  has  learned  from 
others,  and  the  character  of  the  sources  from  which 
his  information  is  drawn. 

136.  He  will  particularly  see  that  no  communica- 
tion with  the  enemy  be  allowed,  and  that  no  flag  be 
permitted  to  pass  the  line  of  post,  without  orders 
from  the  rear. 

137.  The  post  under  the  officer's  command,  whether 
horse  or  foot,  should  not  all  be  allowed  to  sleep  or  eat 
at  once.  The  horses,  when  watered,  should  be  taken 
singly,  or  by  pairs,  and  always  mounted.  At  night, 
one-half  of  the  command  should  be  under  arms,  pre- 
pared for  an  attack,  the  other  seated,  their  arms  and 
the  bridles  of  their  horses  in  hand.  The  men  should 
never  be  permitted  to  occupy  a  house;  and  if  the 
weather  is  such  that  a  fire  out  of  doors  is  indispensa- 
ble, it  should  be  as  much  concealed  as  practicable ; 
one-half  only  being  allowed  to  sit  near  it,  the  other 
posted,  at  a  convenient  spot  at  hand,  to  fall  on  the 
enemy  should  he  attempt  a  stroke. 


62        ADVANCED-GtTARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS. 

138.  "Wlien  the  position  taken  up  is  to  be  held  for 
some  time,  it  will  be  well  to  change  the  locality  of 
the  posts  occasionally;  this  should  be  done,  particu- 
larly at  night,  in  a  hilly  district,  changing  the  post 
from  the  brow  of  the  hill,  where  the  men  can  bes* 
keep  a  look-out  by  day,  to  the  low  ground  at  night,  as 
more  favorable  to  detect  any  movement  above. 

139.  The  out-posts  are  usually  relieved  at  day-break, 
as  being  the  most  favorable  moment  for  the  enemy 
to  attempt  a  surprise ;  the  new  guard  will  serve  to 
reinforce  the  old.  For  the  same  reason,  the  old  guard 
should  not  be  suffered  to  retire  before  the  patrols 
come  in,  and  report  all  safe, 

140.  As  a  general  rule,  no  post  should  ever  retire 
before  an  inferior  force;  and,  if  attacked  by  one  supe- 
rior to  it,  resistance  should  be  cautiously  made  with  a 
view  solely  to  give  time  to  the  grand-guard  to  be  in 
readiness  to  receive  the  enemy.  "When  it  is  seen  that 
the  movement  of  the  enemy  is  serious,  the  officer 
should  draw  in  his  sentinels  as  skirmishers,  and  retire 
upon  the  grand-guard;  the  latter  will  usually  be- 
divided  into  two  divisions,  one  of  which  will  be  sent 
to  take  up  a  position  to  the  rear,  to  cover  the  retreat; 
the  other  will  act  as  a  support  to  the  line  of  skirm- 
ishers, so  as  to  feel  the  enemy.  In  all  cases  of  retir- 
ing, whether  of  sentinels  upon  their  posts,  or  of  posts 
upon  their  supports,  care  should  be  taken  to  assume 
a  direction  towards  the  flunk  of  the  force  in  rear,  so 
as  to  niiniatk  its  front  and  not  impede  any  forward 
movement  it  may  make,  if  necessary, 

141.  The  degree  of  resistance  to  be  offered  by  the 


ADVANCED-GUARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS.        63 

pickets  will  depend  on  the  object  to  be  obtained,  and 
the  importance  of  the  point  occupied.  Thej^  should 
not  retire  until  they  have  received  the  whole  of  their 
grand-guards,  out-posts  and  patrols. 

142.  At  night  the  precautions  should  be  necessarily 
redoubled,  and  every  movement  bo  made  with  ex- 
treme  caution.  AVhenever  any  noise  is  heard  in  the 
direction  of  a  sentinel's  post,  the  officer  should  pro- 
ceed, with  a  part  of  his  command,  in  its  direction,  to 
ascertain  the  cause  of  it.  If  he  finds  that  it  arises 
from  an  onward  movement  of  the  enem}^,  he  should 
only  fall  back  upon  his  grand-guard  when  he  sees 
that  resistance  would  be  unavailing  ;  retiring  slowly 
and  cautiously,  and  taking  every  advantage,  which 
the  ground  offers,  to  check  the  enemy's  advance. 
Should  the  enemy  fall  suddenly  upon  his  command, 
he  must  endeavor  to  cut  his  way  through,  and  reach 
his  position  in  the  rear  by  the  best  circuit  he  can  find. 

143.  Advanced-Guards. — Measures  of  precaution, 
for  a  force  in  position,  are  far  more  easily  arranged 
than  for  one  in  motion.  At  a  halt  of  some  days,  but 
slight  changes  in  the  first  dispositions,  arising  from  a 
more  thorough  knowledge  of  the  ground  taken  up, 
will  be  requisite  ;  on  a  march  the  scene  is  continually 
shifting,  and  the  enemy  may  fall  on  just  at  that  point 
or  under  those  circumstances  in  which  we  are  least 
prepared  to  meet  him.  Hence  a  necessity  for  doubling 
the  ordinary  precautions  on  a  march,  and  keeping  the 
troops  more  in  hand,  so  as  to  be,  at  all  moments,  pre- 
pared for  any  emergency. 

144.  The   spirit  of  the  dispositions  is  the  same  in 


64       ADTANCED-GITARDS  AND  ADYANCED-POSTS. 

both  cases  ;  changes  in  the  details,  so  as  to  adapt  our 
force  to  the  changing  features  of  the  ground  passed 
over,  present  the  real  difficulty.  On  a  march,  we 
may  have  to  guard  against  an  attack  on  the  head  of 
the  column,  on  either  flank  or  both,  and  in  the  rear. 
Hence  a  necessary  disposition  of  movable  advanced- 
posts,  in  each  of  these  directions,  keeping  pace  with 
the  progress  of  the  main  body,.and  far  enough  from 
it  to  give  it  timely  warning  of  a  threatened  attack. 

145.  The  dispositions  in  front  is  termed  the  Ad- 
vanced-Guard, those  on  the  flanks,  the  Flankers,  and 
those  in  rear,  ih.Q  Rear- Guar d. 

146.  As  the  head  of  a  colunan  in  march  towards 
the  enemy  is  the  weak  point,  it  is  here  that  the  prin- 
cipal strength  must  be  accumulated,  so  that,  if  threat- 
ened with  an  attack,  sufficient  resistance  can  be  offered 
to  enable  the  rear  divisions  to  come  up  and  take  timely 
position  for  battle.  The  advanced-guard  should, 
therefore,  be  composed  of  troops  of  all  arms,  and  be 
always  in  a  suitable  state  of  readiness  to  receive  the 
enemy,  according  to  the  nature  of  the  ground  upon 
which  it  may  be  formed.  To  watch  the  enemy;  resist 
him  with  obstinacy,  should  he  suddenly  attack,  until 
time  is  gained  for  the  main-body  to  receive  him ; 
drive  in  his  advanced-posts  with  impetuosity  ;  such 
are  the  duties  which  this  body  may  in  turn  be  called 
on  to  perform. 

147.  The  first  of  these  duties,  that  of  learning  the 
whereabouts  of  an  enemy,  is  intrusted  to  individuals, 
or  to  parties  of  more  or  less  strength,  as  the  occasion 


iLDVANCED-GUARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS.        65 

# 

may  require ;  light  cavalry  being  usually  selected,  in 
preference  to  any  other  arm,  for  this  service. 

148.  Head  of  Advanced  Guard. — A  head  or  leading 
detachment  of  some  force,  composed  usually  of  both 
cavalry  andinfantry,  andif  requisite  of  some  pioneers, 
forms  the  advance  of  the  main-body  of  the  advanced- 
guard,  for  the  purpose  of  searching  all  the  ground 
within  a  dangerous  proximity,  and  of  clearing  the 
way  for  the  advancing  columns.  Through  this  de- 
tachment a  communication  is  kept  up  with  the  flank- 
ers, and  all  the  ground  is  thus  hemmed  in  around  the 
advancing  column,  by  which  an  enemy  might  ap- 
proach it. 

140.  The  strength  of  the  leading  detachment  will 
depend  greatly  upon  the  character  of  the  country,  and 
upon  the  state  of  the  weather  and  season  being  more 
or  less  favorable  to  the  unobserved  approach  of 
an  enemy.  A  leading  detachment  of  one-fourth  the 
total  strength  of  the  advanced-guard,  two  flank  de- 
tachments, to  act  as  flankers,  of  one-eighth,  and  a 
rear  detachment,  acting  as  a  rear-guard,  also  of  one- 
eighth,  taking,  in  all,  one-half  the  total  strength  of 
the  advanced-guard,  is  considered,  under  ordinary 
circumstances,  a  good  distribution  for  the  duties  to 
be  performed. 

150.  All  the  ground,  within  the  proximity  of  the 
advanced-guard,  must  be  carefully  searched  by  it. 
No  invariable  rule  can  be  laid  down  on  this  subject, 
everything  depending  on  the  character  of  the  country, 
the  state  of  the  weather,  and  the  march  being  by  day 


66        ADVi^CED-GUARDS  AND  ADV^CED-POSTS. 

or  night,  as  to  the  more  or  less  dispersed  order  that 
can  be  adopted  for  examining  the  ground. 

151.  The  leading  detachment,  and  those  on  the 
flanks,  should  keep  in  a  position,  with  respect  to  each 
other,  that  will  admit  of  prompt  mutual  support,  and 
guarding  against  the  approach  of  an  enemy  unper- 
ceived.  The  flank  detachments,  for  this  purpose, 
keeping  somewhat  to  the  rear  of  the  leading  one. 
The  most  advanced  portions  of  these  troops  should  be 
cavalry,  unless  the  country  be  mountainous,  or  very 
thickly  wooded,  in  which  cases  infantry  is  the  best 
arm  for  the  duty. 

152.  The  distance  that  should  be  left  between  the 
leading  detachments  and  the  principal  body  of  the 
advanced -guard,  will  depend  upon  the  more  or  less  of 
necessary  precaution  already  alhided  to.  An  interval 
of  from  a  thousand  to  two  thousand  paces  may  be 
left  between  the  leading  detachment  and  the  main 
portion  ;  the  small  detachments  thrown  forward  from 
the  leading  detachment  may  precede  it  from  two 
hundred  to  six  hundred  paces;  whilst  the  leading 
men,  who  form,  as  it  v/ere,  the  apex  of  this  disposi- 
tion, precede  the  last  about  one  hundred  paces. 

153.  Dispositions  of  Advanced- Guard. — From  these 
indications  of  the  manner  of  distributing  the  troops 
of  the  advanced-guard,  the  following  general  dispo- 
sitions, adapted  to  ordinary  circumstances  of  locality, 
may  be  gathered.  The  apex,  or  most  advanced  point, 
may  be  formed  of  a  staff,  or  other  intelligent  officer, 
under  the  escort  of  a  few  horsemen ;  in  his  rear  follow 
small   detachments   of  horse,    preceded   by   a  line  of 


ADVANCED-GUARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS.         6T 

horsemen,  as  skirmishers,  in  dispersed  order,  thrown 
out  from  them;  this  line  of  small  detachments  and 
their  men  may  embrace  a  front  of  a  thousand  or  moro 
paces,  according  to  the  face  of  the  country.  On  each 
flank  of  the  detachments,  from  which  the  skirmishers 
are  thrown  forward,  march  small  detachments  of 
both  horse  and  foot,  as  supports  of  the  line.  In  the 
rear  of  this  lino,  at  a  hundred  paces  or  so,  may  be 
placed  a  small  detachment,  charged  with  patrolling 
either  on  the  front  or  flanks.  Finally,  at  some  sixty 
paces  in  the  rear  of  the  detachment  for  patrols,  follows 
the  remaining  portion  of  the  horse  and  foot  compos- 
ing the  leading  detachment.  The  main  body  of  the 
advanced-guard,  following  some  hundred  paces  far- 
ther to  the  rear ;  and  the  rear  of  its  march  being 
closed  by  the  small  rear  detachment  already  men- 
tioned. 

It  will  be  seen  by  comparing  this  disposition  of  the 
troops  of  an  advanced-guard  in  march,  with  the  one 
adopted  for  the  advanced-posts  at  a  halt,  that  they  are 
analagous,  and  differ  in  no  material  respect,  as  their 
object  in  each  case  is  the  same. 

154.  In  a  forward  movement,  this  general  disposi- 
tion of  the  troops  of  the  leading  detachment  should 
be  adhered  to,  as  far  as  the  features  of  the  ground 
will  permit.  "Whenever  these  features  become  such 
that  a  concentration  on  the  centre  is  rendered  neces- 
sary, a  proper  order  should  be  temporarily  taken,  to 
enable  the  troops  promptly  tO'  resume  their  original 
order,  so  soon  as  the  ground  opens.  The  leading  line 
of  skirmishers   will  carefully  examine  all  the  ground 


68       ADVANCED-GUARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS. 

over  which  they  pass,  and  observe  all  that  occurs 
around  them.  The  men,  for  this  purpose,  keeping  in 
pairs,  and  taking  all  suitable  precaution  not  to  place 
themselves  in  positions  favorable  to  being  seen  from 
a  distance. 

155.  If  the  enemy  is  met,  dispositions  are  immedi- 
ately taken  to  receive  him.  The  line  of  skirmishers 
is  strengthened,  the  supports  brought  up,  and  if  there 
is  any  artillery,  it  takes  position  on  the  road  to  sweep 
it;  In  this  order,  the  whole  of  the  leading  detach- 
ment falls  back  slowly  upon  the  main  body  of  the 
advanced-guard;  and  further  dispositions  are  made 
according  to  the  exigency  of  the  case. 

166.  The  general  order  of  march  of  an  advanced- 
guard  remains  the  same  in  all  circumstances  of 
ground;  the  position  of  the  troops  alone  varying 
with  changes  of  its  features.  In  broken  ground,  for 
instance,  the  line  of  skirmishers  of  the  leading  detach- 
ment would  be  of  infantry,  and  this  line  would  be 
supported  by  some  cavalry. 

157.  A  strict  observance  of  good  order,  particularly 
among  the  troops  of  the  leading  detachment,  is  of  the 
first  importance;  nothing  should  therefore  be  permit- 
ted which  might  either  withdraw  their  attention  from 
their  chief  duty  of  watching,  or  which  might  give 
warning  to  an  enemy  of  their  approach.  They  should 
especially  guard  against  being  drawn  into  the  use  of 
their  fire-arms,  short  of  an  actual  surprise. 

158.  On  a  night  march  the  precautions  should  be 
redoubled.  The  leading  detachment  will  be  more 
concentrated,    keeping  mostly  to  the  road.     If  the 


ADVANCED-GtTARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS.         69 

enemy  is  seen,  word  will  be  sent  at  once  to  the  rear, 
for  a  halt,  and  the  suitable  dispositions  will  be  taken, 
as  noiselessly  as  practicable. 

159.  All  defiles  met  with  of  any  length  should  be 
examined  carefully  by  some  scouts,  before  any  num- 
ber of  troops  venture  into  them,  and  then  proper 
measures  should  be  taken  for  securing  them  from  an 
attack,  until  the  troops  are  all  clear  of  them.  All 
woods  that  can  be  easily  gone  round  should  be  made 
the  circuit  of  by  some  horse,  before  passing  through 
them.  The  thick  forests  should  be  carefully  exam- 
ined, a  hundred  or  more  paces  on  each  side  of  the 
road.  And  in  all  case^  any  doubtful  ground  must 
be  first  searched,  by  the  leading  troops,  before  any 
large  bodj^  approaches  within  musket-range  of  it. 

IGO.  Flank  Patrols. — Besides  the  flankers  proper, 
which  constitute  a  part  of  the  movable  advanced- 
posts,  detachments  of  an  independent  character  are 
sent  out  to  patrol  along  the  flanks  of  the  main  col- 
umn. These  should  keep  themselves  in  communica- 
tion, by  suitable  dispositions  of  vedettes,  with  the 
flankers. 

161.  As  the  flank  patrols  are  frequently  beyond 
direct  supporting  distance,  they  must  adopt  all  the 
necessary  dispositions  against  surprise  of  any  other 
body  marching  independently,  having  their  advanced- 
guards,  &c.,  &c. 

162.  These  patrols  keep  on  a  level  with  their  col- 
umn, and  particularly  secure  all  lateral  roads  or 
defiles,  by  which  it  might  be  suddenly  attacked, 
until  the  column  is  beyond  danger.     Great  activity, 


70        ADVANCED-GUARDS   AND  ADVANCED-POSTS. 

watclifulness,  and  caution,  should  characterize  this 
service.  The  officer  in  command  of  a  flank  patrol 
must  use  his  discretion,  in  meeting  an  enemy,  whether 
to  attack  him,  or  let  him  pass,  if  he  has  not  himself 
been  observed. 

163.  Rear-Guard. — The  duties  of  a  rear-guard,  in 
retreat,  will  depend  upon  the  more  or  less  of  activity 
and  vigor  shown  by  the  enemy  in  pursuit.  If  the 
enemy  is  enterprising,  then  it  will  require  all  the 
sagacity  of  the  commanding-officer;  all  the  firmness 
of  the  soldiers,  to  cover  and  defend  the  rear  of  the 
column,  and  to  guard  against  demonstrations  upon  its 
flanks.  To  hold  the  enemy  in  check,  just  the  time 
necessary  to  enable  the  retreating  column  to  extricate 
itself  from  unfavorable  ground,  and  then  to  withdraw 
from  the  fight,  without  being  too  far  compromised;  to 
prevent  the  enemy  from  pressing  on  so  hotly  as  to  force 
the  main  body  of  the  rear-guard  upon  the  tail  of  the 
column  whose  retreat  is  to  be  secured,  are  problems 
of  no  easy  solution,  and  cilll  for  all  the  best  military 
qualities,  both  in  the  officer  and  the  troops  to  whom 
the  solution  is  assigned. 

164.  In  mutual  support  among  all  the  arms,  apti- 
tude for  turning  to  advantage  all  variations  in  the 
features  of  the  ground,  and  tenacity  in  keeping  every 
advantage  offered  until  the  last  safe  moment,  reside 
the  excellence  of  a  rear-guard.  In  interdicting  by 
the  tire  of  its  skirmishers  all  approach  to  its  covers ; 
in  occasional  bold  manreuvres  of  its  light  artillery, 
when  the  enemy's  columns  are  open  to  its  fire  ;  in 
daring  rapid  charges  of  its  cavalry,  when  the  enemy 


ADVANCED-GUARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS.        71 

presses  forward  to  gain  some  critical  point,  a  rear- 
guard may  give  an  enemy  such  lessons  as  will 
force  him  to  adopt  that  prudential  course  on  which 
its  own  safety,  and  that  of  its  column,  alone  de- 
pend. 

165.  As  the  march  of  a  rear-guard  is  an  almost 
continual  running  fight,  its  dispositions  should  be 
taken  for  this  phase  of  its  duties.  Its  rear  should 
accordingly  be  closed  by  a  line  of  skirmishers,  pro- 
perly supported  by  the  other  arms.  This  line  must 
equally  exhibit  caution,  coolness  and  firmness> 
giving  way  to  no  hasty  movements,  and  reserving 
its  fire  until  it  can  be  thrown  in  with  murderous 
efl^ect.      If  forced    back    by  superior    numbers,  the 

kirmishers  should  concentrate  on  the  flanks  of  the 
other  troops,  leaving  the  road  clear,  either  for  the 
fire  of  the  artillery,  or  for  the  action  of  cavalry,  or 
of  infantry  in  mass. 

166.  In  all  its  actions,  the  rear-guard  should  never 
lose  sight  of  the  danger  it  continually  runs  of  being 
surrounded,  or  cut  off,  by  a  movement  on  its  flanks 
or  rear.  Against  this,  its  only  course  is  to  push 
out  flank  patrols,  as  far  as  they  can  safely  venture, 
restricting  these  to  the  duties  of  conveying  timely 
warning  to  the  main-body  of  the  rear-guard  of  any 
appearance  of  a  movement  of  the  kind  referred  to. 
and  of  preventing  it,  if  attempted,  by  a  bold  stand, 
either  defensive  or  offensive,  as  circumstances  may 
demand. 

167.  Advanced- Posts  in  Cantonmeyits. — As  canton- 
ments are  taken  up  either  during  seasons  when  op- 


72       ADVANCED -QTJARDS  AND  ADVANCED-POSTS. 

erations  cannot  be  well  carried  on,  or  to  give  the  troops 
some  extraordinary  repose,  after  a  harassing  cam- 
paign, more  advanced-posts  will  generally  be  ne- 
cessary than  under  ordinary  circumstances,  and  to 
fulfil  their  end  they  ought  to  be  placed  on  ground 
favorable  to  a  strong  resistance,  in  order  to  give  the 
separated  corps  time  to  concentrate  against  an  earnest 
attack  of  the  enemy. 

168,  A  good  disposition  of  stations  for  out-posts, 
from  which  the  enemy  can  be  seen  at  a  distance; 
a  line  of  supports  placed  on  strong  ground  in  the 
rear ;  easy  communications  for  concentration  on  the 
main-body ;  active  and  vigilant  patrols,  kept  moving 
not  only  along  the  front,  but  penetrating  on  the 
flanks  and  rear  of  the  enemy,  to  get  wind  of  his 
strategical  plans  :  such  are  the  general  precautions 
demanded  of  its  advanced-posts,  by  an  army  in  sta- 
tion for  some  time. 

169.  In  the  disposition  of  the  main  force  to  concur 
with  the  preceding,  one  precaution  should  not  be 
omitted  in  a  stay  of  any  duration ;  and  that  is,  not 
to  allow  any  one  body  to  remain  long  enough  in  a 
village,  or  inhabited  place,  to  become  in  a  degree 
domesticated.  Nothing  is  more  likely  than  this  to 
injure  the  morale  of  the  best  troops.  The  seductions 
of  otherwise  harmless  pleasures,  may  lead  to  fatal 
habits  of  remissness  in  duty ;  and  the  officer  quietly 
indulging  in  his  game  at  cards,  in  a  family  circle, 
may  receive  his  summons  for  surrender  as  he  is  gath- 
ering up  his  last  trick. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

KECONNOIS8ANCK8, 

170.  There  are  no  more  important  duties  which 
an  officer  may  be  called  upon  to  perform  than  those 
of  collecting  and  arranging  the  information  upon 
"Which  either  the  general  or  daily  operations  of  a 
campaign  must  be  based.  For  the  proper  perform- 
ance of  the  former,  acquirements  of  a  very  high 
order,  in  the  departments  of  geography  and  statistics, 
are  indispensable  requisites,  to  which  must  be  added 
a  minute  acquaintance  with  topography,  and  a  good 
coup  (Vceil  militaire  for  that  of  the  latter. 

171.  However  detailed  and  perfect  may  be  a  map, 
it  can  never  convey  all  the  information  that  will  en- 
able an  officer  to  plan  even  an  ordinary  march  with 
safety,  still  less  operations  that  necessarily  depend 
for  their  success  upon  a  far  greater  number  of  con- 
tingencies. To  supply  these  deficiencies  of  maps,  an 
examination  of  the  ground  must  be  made  by  the  eye, 
and  verbal  information  be  gained,  on  all  the  points 
connected  with  the  operation  over  this  ground. 
This  examination  and  collection  of  facts  is  termed  a 
Recoymoissance. 

172.  From  the  services  demanded  of  a  reconnoi- 


74  RECONNOISSANCES. 

tring  officer,  it  is,  in  the  first  place,  evident  that  he 
should  possess  acquirements  of  no  ordinary  character, 
but  in  addition  to  these,  he  should  be  gifted  by  na- 
ture with  certain  traits,  without  which  his  acquisi- 
tions would  be  of  little  account  in  the  discharge  of 
the  responsible  duty  in  question. 

173.  With  clear  and  specific  information  before 
him,  one-half  of  a  general's  difficulties  in  planning 
his  measures,  are  dissipated.  In  a  letter  from  Gen. 
Washington  to  Maj.  Tallmadge,  now  to  be  seen 
framed  in  the  office  of  the  Commissary-General  of 
New  York,  he  remarks,  in  relation  to  reports  made 
to  him  on  a  certain  occasion:  "But  these  things 
not  being  delivered  with  certainty,  rather  perplex 
than  form  the  judgment."  It  is  in  truth  this  feeling 
of  certainty  that  constitutes  all  the  diiference ;  hav- 
ing it,  the  general  makes  his  dispositions  with  confi- 
dence ;  without  it,  he  acts  hesitatingly,  and  thus 
communicates  to  others  that  want  of  confidence  felt 
in  his  own  mind. 

174.  An  officer  then,  selected  for  the  duty  in  ques- 
tion, should  be  known  to  be  cool-headed  and  truthful 
— one  who  sees  things  as  they  are,  and  -tells  clearly 
and  precisely  what  he  has  seen.  In  making  his  re- 
port, whether  verbally  or  in  writing,  the  officer 
should  study  conciseness  and  precision  of  language. 
He  must  carefully  separate  what  he  knows  from  his 
own  observation,  from  that  which  he  has  learned 
from  others,  and  add  all  the  circumstances  of  place, 
and  time,  with  accuracy. 

175.  Duties  of    Reconnoitring   Officer. — The   first 


RECONNOISSANCES.  75 

thing  to  be  done  by  an  officer  selected  for  a  recon- 
noissance,  isto  ascertain  precisely  the  duty  required 
of  him  ;  arid  what  further  should  be  done  in  case  of 
certain  contingencies  that  may,  from  the  nature  of 
the  duty,  be  naturally  looked  for.  In  the  perform- 
ance of  the  duty  assigned  him,  and  in  making  his 
report,  the  officer  should  keep  always  in  mind  the 
specific  character  of  his  mission,  as  his  guide  in  both 
points. 

176.  As  the  need  of  a  reconnoissance  supposes  a 
deficiency  in  information  upon  the  features  of  the 
country,  the  officer  detailed  to  make  one  should  pro- 
vide himself  with  maps,  a  good  telescope,  such 
simple  aids  for  judging  of  distances,  and  ascertain- 
ing the  relative  positions  of  objects,  as  he  can  him- 
self readily  make ;  writing  materials ;  one  or  more 
good  guides ;  and  gain  all  the  knowledge  he  can, 
from  the  inhabitants  at  hand,  bearing  upon  his 
mission. 

177.  The  talent  of  judging  of  distances,  and  of 
the  connection  between  the  various  features  of  a 
country  within  the  field  of  vision,  is  partly  a  natural 
and  partly  an  acquired  one.  Some  individuals  can 
never  be  brought  to  have  any  confidence  in  their 
own  judgment  on  these  points;  others  have  a  natural 
aptitude  for  them,  which  requires  but  little  practice 
for  their  perfect  development.  The  powers  of  the 
eye  vary  so  greatly  among  civilized  persons,  that  no 
general  rules  can  be  laid  down  as  a  guide  for  the 
matter  in  question.  Among  uncivilized  hordes, 
used  to  a  roaming  life,  there  are  found  standards 


76  RECONNOISSANCKS. 

"which  are  well  understood  by  all ;  the  Arab,  for  in- 
stance, calling  that  distance  a  mile,  at  which  a  man 
is  no  longer  distinguishable  from  a  woman — grow- 
ing out  of  their  habits. 

178.  The  first  thing,  then,  to  be  done  by  an  officer 
in  acquiring  the  coup  d'ceil  Tnilitaire,  is  to  learn, 
both  from  books  and  on  the  field,  what  space  is  taken 
up  by  a  battalion  and  its  intervals,  by  a  squadron, 
and  by  a  battery  when  in  order  of  battle;  how  much 
when  in  column  of  march  ;  and  the  average  time 
required  for  certain  movements,  under  given  circum- 
stances of  the  ground.  This  acquirement  he  may 
make  by  adopting  some  standard  of  his  own,  his 
ordinary  pace,  and  that  of  a  horse,  serving  for  com- 
puting time  and  distance  reciprocally.  The  next 
step  is  to  acquire  the  habit  of  estimating,  by  the 
appearances  of  these  difierent  objects,  from  various 
points  of  view,  how  far  off  they  are.  This  must  be 
done  practically.  A  very  simple  aid  to  it  is  the  fol- 
lowing :  Upon  the  stem  of  a  lead  pencil,  cut  square, 
and  held  out  at  a  uniform  arm's  length  from  the  eye, 
by  means  of  a  thread  attached  to  it  and  fastened  to 
the  top  button-hole,  let  the  officer  mark  off,  on  one 
of  the  edges,  the  length  seen  on  it  by  holding  the 
pencil  upright  between  the  eye  and  a  man  placed 
successively  at  different  distances  from  it,  as  100,  150 
— 1000  yards.  This  will  give  one  rough  standard  for 
practice.  Another  may  be  made  by  first  ascertain- 
ing the  average  height  of  certain  cultivated  trees,  as 
the  apple,  &c. 

179.  For  getting  relative  positions,  a  contrivance 


RKCONNOIS8ANCE8.  77 

for  measuring  angles  roughly  must  be  used.  This  is 
done  by  first  folding  a  leaf  of  paper  across,  and  then 
doubling  it  along  the  folded  edge,  as  if  to  divide  it 
into  four  equal  parts.  The  angle  between  the  edge 
of  the  first  fo^d  and  that  of  the  second,  will  be  a  tol- 
erably accurate  right-angle.  Now,  by  cutting  off 
carefully  along  the  fofd  one  of  the  pieces,  we  obtain 
a  quadrant,  or  90°;  then  folding  this  at  the  angle,  so 
that  the  two  edges  will  exactly  coincide,  we  get  the 
half  of  a  quadrant,  or  45°;  and  so  on,  by  successive 
bisections  we  can  mark  off  smaller  angles.  Then 
making  a  pen  or  pencil-mark  along  each  of  the  folds, 
and  numbering  the  angles  successively  from  0  to  90°, 
we  have  a  rough  protractor,  that  can  be  used  both  for 
measuring  angles  and  setting  them  off  on  a  sketch. 
To  measure  vertical  angles,  a  thread  with  a  light 
plummet,  must  be  attached  to  the  angular  point.  If 
the  object  is  above  the  horizon  of  the  eye,  we  hold 
the  protractor  with  the  angular  point  from  the  eye,  so 
that  the  plumb-line  will  fall  along  the  face  of  the 
paper,  just  touching  it ;  then  directing  the  top  edge 
of  the  protractor  on  the  object,  so  that  it  is  just  seen 
by  the  eye,  sighting  along  the  edge,  the  angle  formed 
between  the  plumb-line  and  the  other  edge,  will  be 
the  same  as  the  angle  between  the  line  of  sight  and 
the  horizon  of  the  eye. 

If  the  object  is  below  the  horizon  of  the  eye,  the 
angular  point  is  placed  towards  the  eye;  the  same 
series  of  operations  will  give  the  angle  below  the 
eye's  horizon. 

180.  Guides. — Trustworthy  guides  are  invaluable. 


78  RECONNOISSANCES. 

but  most  rare,  in  an  enemy's  country.  The  best, 
from  the  information  they  acquire  by  their  habits  of 
life,  are  to  be  found  among  those  classes  whose  avo- 
cations keep  them  much  abroad,  going  from  place  to 
place  within  a  certain  sphere  constantly — such  as 
common  carriers,  hunters,  smugglers,  &c.  Among 
the  first  things  to  be  attended  to  by  an  ofiicer,  in 
taking  post  at  any  point,  is  to  find  out  persons  of 
this  class,  and  to  ascertain  their  whereabout  when 
wanted.  Kind  treatment,  douceurs,  and  promises, 
should  not  be  spared,  to  enlist  either  their  good  will 
or  their  interests;  and,  if  policy  requires  it,  they 
may  openly  be  treated  with  apparent  harshness,  to 
screen  them  from  odium  among  their  neighbors. 

181.  If  none  of  this  class  can  be  found,  then  resort 
must  b.e  had  to  a  higher — local  authorities  being  in 
preference  selected — and  if  necessary,  forced  to  act. 
Here  very  careful  treatment  is  requisite.  When  the 
necessity  of  the  case  is  admitted  by  them,  much  may 
be  gleaned  by  kindness,  courtesy,  and  a  certain  defer- 
ence, from  such  persons,  that  cannot  be  looked  for 
from  their  inferiors. 

182.  Before  starting  on  his  mission,  the  officer 
should  question  his  guide  thoroughly;  and  if  he  has 
several,  question  each  apart;  like  precautions  should 
be  taken  with  respect  to  other  inhabitants.  Care 
must  be  had  to  find  out  the  usual  beats  of  one  taken 
as  a  guide,  so  as  not  to  take  him  out  of  his  own 
neighborhood.  In  all  cases,  the  guide  must  be  well 
watched,  however  trustworthy  he  may  seem.  If  un- 
\villing  or  sulky,  he  must,  if  needs  be,   be  tied,  and 


KECONNOISSANCES.  79 

attiiched  to  a  strong  man,  with  a  rope  round  his  mid- 
dle; being  first  strictly  searched  for  any  cutting  in- 
strument about  him. 

183.  Should  there  be  but  one  guide,  he  must  ne- 
cessarily be  placed  with  the  most  advanced  portion 
of  the  detachment  accompanying  the  officer.  If 
there  are  several,  one  must  be  there  also;  the  one 
apparently  the  most  intelligent  with  the  officer,  who 
should  ply  him  with  questions,  and  the  others  in  the 
rear  strictly  guarded. 

184.  It  may  be  well  to  remark,  that  guides  are 
useful  even  in  a  country  of  easy  communications  ; 
as  in  case  of  a  rencontre,  they  may  point  out  bye- 
ways  convenient  for  cetreat,  if  necessary. 

185.  Reconnoissance. — To  designate  all  the  objects 
to  be  embraced  in  a  reconnoissance,  would  lead  far- 
ther than  the  limits  of  this  little  work  will  allow ; 
some  general  heads,  which  will  serve  as  guides  in  all 
cases,  will  therefore  be  alone  noticed. 

186.  A  general  view  of  the  ground  to  be  examined 
must  first  be  taken  in,  so  as  to  obtain  some  notion  of 
the  forms  of  the  parts,  their  connection  and  relations 
to  each  other,  before  going  into  a  detailed  examina- 
tion. To  one  possessed  of  some  topographical  knowl- 
edge, this  study  of  what  is  before  him  will  not  de- 
mand much  time.  A  level  country,  for  example,  he 
knows  is  usually  well  cultivated,  and  therefore  has 
plenty  of  hedges,  ditches,  &c.,  which  lend  themselves 
well  to  affairs  of  light  troops  ;  may  be  not  a  little 
inconvenient  to  manoeuvres  of  artillery,  and  fre- 
quently bring  up  cavalry  very  unexpectedly  in  full 


80  RBCONKOISSANCES, 

career.  In  a  mountainous  one,  dangerous  passes, 
narrow  roads,  torrents  with  rough  beds,  ugly  sudJen 
turns,  &c.,  will  necessarily  be  met  with.  Each  and 
all  of  these  demand  a  particular  examination,  and  in 
his  report  their  advantages  and  disadvantages  should 
be  clearly  pointed  out  by  the  officer. 

187.  If  the  reconnoissance  is  for  an  onward  move- 
ment, the  distances  from  halt  to  halt,  as  well  as  all 
others,  should  be  estimated  in  hours  of  march;  the 
nature  of  the  roads,  and  the  obstacles  along  them  be 
carefully  detailed  ;  the  means  that  may  be  gathered 
along  the  line  to  facilitate  the  movement,  as  vehicles, 
men  and  materials  for  removing  obstacles  &c.  The 
points  where  cross-roads  are  found,  must  be  specified; 
the  direction  of  these  roads,  their  uses,  &c. 

188.  All  local  objects  along  the  line,  as  villages, 
farm-houses,  &c.,  should  be  carefully  designated, 
both  as  to  their  position  on  the  line,  or  on  either  side 
of  it ;  and  also  as  to  their  form,  and  color,  &c.,  as 
**  square  white  house  on  the  right,"  ♦♦  round  gray 
stone  tower  on  hill  to  left." 

189.  The  names  of  localities,  in  the  way  in  which 
the  inhabitants  pronounce  them,  should  be  carefully 
written,  and  called  over  several  times,  so  as  to  be 
sure  to  get  them  as  nearly  as  practicable  right  in 
sound ;  then  the  names,  as  written  by  an  intelligent 
inhabitant,  should  be  added. 

190.  All  halting  points  must  be  well  looked  to ; 
their  military  capabilities  in  case  of  attack,  as  well  as 
their  resources  for  accommodating  the  troops,  be 
thoroughly  gone  into. 


RKCONNOI8SANCE8.  81 

If  the  halt  ia  to  take  position  for  some  time,  to 
await  or  watch  the  enemy,  then  more  care  must  bo 
taken,  the  whole  site  be  well  studied  as  to  its  fulfilling 
the  proposed  end;  the  points  of  support  on  the  flanka 
bo  designated,  as  well  as  others  in  front  and  rear, 
that  may  require  to  be  occupied ;  the  suitable  lo- 
calities to  be  chosen  for  parks,  hospital,  «&c.;  the 
communications  to  be  opened  or  repaired,  pointed 
out ;  and  all  the  facilities  either  for  an  advance  or  a 
retrograde  movement,  be  laid  down. 

191.  Armed  Reconnoissanee.  —  Recon  n  oissances, 
made  in  the  neighborhood  of  an  enemy,  require  to 
be  done  under  the  protection  of  a  proper  detachment, 
the  strength  and  composition  of  which  will  depend 
on  the  object  to  bo  attained. 

192.  If  the  object  be  to  gain  secretly  a  knowledge 
of  the  enemy's  whereabout  and  strength,  then  a  de- 
tachment of  light  cavalry,  conducted  by  a  trusty 
guide,  through  circuitous  bye-ways,  and  moving  with 
celerity,  but  with  proper  precautions  against  falling 
into  an  ambush,  or  having  his  retreat  cut  off,  is  usu- 
ally resorted  to.  The  details  for  this  will  be  found 
under  the  head  of  Patrols. 

193.  When  an  enemy's  position  is  to  be  recon- 
noitred, with  a  view  to  force  him  to  show  his  hand, 
by  causing  him  to  call  out  all  his  troops,  then  a 
large  detachment  of  all  arms,  adequate  to  the  task  of 
pressing  the  enemy  vigorously,  and  also  of  withdraw- 
ing with  safety  when  pressed  in  turn,  must  be 
thrown  forward. 

194.  Under  the  shelter  of  either  of  these  forces. 


82  RBCONNOISSANCES. 

the  officer  charged  with  the  reconnoissance,  takes  the 
best  moment,  and  best  point  of  view,  for  carefully- 
ascertaining  the  dispositions  made  by  the  enemy. 
A  good  time  will  be  at  early  dawn,  when  troops,  in 
most  services,  are  all  made  to  stand  to  their  arms. 
The  points  which  the  officer  must  exhibit  most  atten- 
tion in  ftnding  out,  are  those  occupied  by  the  bat- 
teries, and  all  those  in  any  way  intrenched. 
,  195.  Patrols. — Patrols  are  of  two  classes,  from  the 
different  objects  had  in  view.  The  first  are  those 
made  with  a  view  of  insuring  greater  security  from 
the  enemy's  attempts  to  pass,  or.  force  the  line  of  out- 
posts, and  may  therefore  be  termed  defensive  patrols. 
They  consist  usually  of  three  or  four  men,  who  go 
the  rounds,  along  the  chain  of  sentinels  and  between 
the  posts;  seldom  venturing  farther  1  ban  a  few  hun- 
dred paces  beyond  the  sentinel's  cbain;  the  object  being 
to  search  points  which  might  present  a  cover  to  the 
enemy's  scouts,  and  to  keep  the  sentinels  on  the  alert. 
196.  The  second  class  are  those  made  exterior  to  the 
line  of  out-posts,  with  a  view  of  gaining  intelligence 
of  the  enemy's  whereabout,  and  may  therefore  be 
termed  offensive  patrols.  They  are  composed  of  larger 
bodies  of  men  than  the  first  class,  the  number  being 
proportioned  both  to  the  distance  to  be  gone  over, 
and  the  extent  of  front  to  be  examined.  In  a  posi- 
tion, presenting  but  few  cros^-roads,  and  sparsely 
settled,  a  patrol  of  ten  or  twenty  horsemen,  may  be 
found  ample,  to  search  with  all  desirable  thorough- 
ness, from  twenty  to  forty  miles  in  advance  of  the 
position,  along  the  principal  avenues  to  it;  whereas, 


RECONNOISSANCES.  83 

with  a  moro  extended  front,  presenting  many  lateral 
avenues,  double  this  number  might  be  required  for 
the  same  duty.  From  the  information  obtained, 
through  the  ordinary  channels  of  maps,  and  by  ques- 
tioning the  inhabitants  at  hand,  the  commanding 
officer  can  usually  settle,  with  sufficient  accuracy, 
the  strength  of  a  patrol. 

197.  From  the  duties  to  be  performed  by  patrols, 
cavalry  are  usually  emploj^ed  alone;  in  cases  of  very 
broken  country,  infantry  may  be  necessary,  but  they 
should  always  be  accompanied  by  some  horse,  if 
for  no  other  purpose  than  to  transmit  intelligence 
promptly  to  the  rear. 

198.  The  main  duties  of  a  patrol  are  to  find  the 
enemy  if  in  the  neighborhood,  gain  a  good  idea  of 
his  position  and  strength,  to  make  out  his  movements, 
and  to  bring  in  an  accurate  account  of  his  distance 
from  the  out-posts  of  their  own  force,  and  the  char- 
acter of  the  ground  between  the  position  occupied  by 
the  respective  forces. 

199.  From  the  nature  of  these  duties,  it  is  evident 
that  both  officers  and  men,  for  a  patrol,  should  be 
selected  with  especial  reference  to  their  activity,  intel- 
ligence, and  the  aptitude  they  may  possess,  from  pre- 
vious habits  of  life,  for  a  service  requiring  a  union 
of  courage,  prudence,  and  discriminating  observation 
—usually  to  be  met  with  only  in  individuals  who 
have  been  thrown  very  much  upon  their  own  resour- 
ces. When  the  character  of  the  country  admits  of  it, 
the  employment  of  such  individuals,  singly,  or  in 
very  small  bodies,  as  scouts,  is  one  of  the  most  avail- 


84  RECONNOI88ANCKS. 

able  means  of  gaining  intelligence  of   an   enemy, 
without  betraying  the  secret  of  our  own  whereabout. 

200.  Duties  of  Officer  in  command  of  a  Patrol. — In 
conducting  a  patrol,  the  commanding  officer  should 
provide  himself  with  a  good  map,  telescope,  and 
guides,  and  gain  all  the  information  he  can  before 
starting,  by  questioning  persons  in  the  neighborhood. 
JS'othing  should  escape  his  eye  along  his  line  of  search, 
and  he  should  particularly  note  points  which  might 

-%e  favorable  to  his  defence,  if  driven  back  by  the 
enemy,  Oi  by  which  his  retreat  might  be  endan- 
gered. 

201.  The  order  of  march  of  the  patrol  will  be  reg- 
ulated by  the  circumstances  of  its  strength,  kind  of 
troops  employed,  the  character  of  the  country  passed 
over,  the  hour  of  the  day,  and  the  particular  object 
in  view.  The  intelligence  and  judgment  of  the 
officer  in  command  will  have  sufficient  exercise  on 
these  points,  as  he  will  be  continually  called  upon  to 
vary  his  dispositions.  The  general  and  obvious  rule 
of  keeping  a  look-out  on  all  sides,  will  prompt  the 
general  disposition  of  an  advanced-guard,  rear-guard, 
and  flankers,  according  to  the  circumstances  of  the 
case,  however  small  his  command.  The  sole  object 
being  to  carry  back  intelligence  of  the  enemy,  no 
precaution  should  be  omitted  to  cover  and  secure  his 
line  of  march,  without  making,  however,  too  great 
a  subdivision  of  his  force. 

202.  Too  much  circumspection  cannot  be  shown 
in  approaching  points  favorable  to  ambuscades,  as 
woods,  ravines,  defiles,  inclosures,  farm-houses,  villa- 


RECONNOISSANCIS.  8S 

ges,  &c.  The  main  body  should  always  be  halted,  in 
a  good  position  beyond  musket-shot,  or  where  cover 
can  be  obtained,  whilst  a  few  men  proceed  cautiously 
forward,  following  at  some  distance  in  the  rear  of,  but 
never  losing  sight  of  each  other,  to  examine  the  sus- 
pected spot.  If  the  officer  deem  it  necessary,  at  any 
point,  to  detach  from  his  command  smaller  patrols,  to 
examine  points  at  some  distance  on  his  flanks,  he 
should  halt  the  rest  at  the  point  where  they  separate, 
until  the  detachments  come  in  and  report;  or  if  he 
decides  to  move  forward,  he  should  leave  three  or  four 
men  at  the  spot,  to  convey  intelligence  promptly  to  the 
rear,   if  anything  is  discovered,  as  well  as  to  himself. 

203.  It  may  frequently  be  found  that  some  eminence 
on  the  flanks  may  present  a  good  view  of  the  sur- 
rounding country,  in  which  case,  if  it  be  decided  t» 
use  it,  two  or  three  men  ought  to  be  detached  for  the 
purpose,  with  orders  to  keG|>  in  sight  of  cash  other, 
but  far  enough  apart  to  guard  against  a  surprise  of 
the  whole. 

204.  When  the  officer  finds  himself  in  the  presence 
of  the  enemy,  he  should  halt  his  command  at  a  con- 
venient spot,  where  where  they  will  be  screened  from 
the  enemy's  view,  and  having  made  his  dispositions 
against  a  surprise,  he  will  proceed  with  a  few  picked 
men  to  the  most  favorable  point  from  which  he  can 
obtain  a  good  look-out,  to  reconnoitre  the  position 
occupied,  and  the  other  points  of  interest.  If  he 
deem  it  advisable  to  keep  his  position,  or  change  it 
for  some  other  point  more  favorable,  he  will  first 
transmit  a  report  to  the  rear  of  what  he  has  observed. 


86  RECONNOISSANCES. 

205.  "When  the  patrol  moves  "by  night,  the  ordinary- 
precautions  must  be  redoubled.  Signals  must  be 
agreed  upon  to  avoid  danger,  should  any  of  the  party 
become  separated  from  the  main  body.  Careful  atten- 
tion must  be  given  to  every  thing  passing  around,  as 
the  barking  of  dogs,  noises,  iBres,  &c.  On  approach- 
ing any  inhabited  spot,  the  command  should  be 
brought  to  a  halt,  whilst  a  few  picked  men  move 
noiselessly  forward,  and  if  practicable,  by  stealing  up 
to  the  windows,  learn  the  character  of  the  inmates. 

206.  It  cannot  be  too  strongly  impressed  upon  the 
mind  of  the  officer  in  command  of  a  patrol,  that  he 
must  be  all  ears  and  eyes ;  that  he  will  be  called  upon 
in  turn,  to  exercise  great  boldness,  caution,  presence 
of  mind  and  good  judgment,  in  accomplishing  a  mis- 
sion where  the  enemy  must  be  seen  but  not  encoun- 
tered ;  and  such  roads  and  halting  points  be  selected, 
both  in  moving  forward  and  returning,  as  shall  be 
most  favorable  to  his  movements,  and  least  liable  to 
expose  him  to  surprise,  or  a  disadvantageous  collision 
with  the  enemy. 


CHAPTER  V. 

DETACHMENTS. 

207.  Detachments  consist  of  small  bodies  of  troops, 
composed  of  one,  or  several  arms,  to  which  are 
intrusted  some  mission  connected  with  the  operations 
of  the  main  body,  but,  for  the  most  part,  performed 
beyond  the  sphere  of  its  support;  such,  for  example, 
as  the  occupation  of  some  post,  or  defile,  which  is  to 
be  held  temporarily,  as  necessary  to  the  movements 
of  the  main  body;  the  surprise  of  a  post  held  by  the 
enemy ;  the  seizure  of  a  convoy,  &c. 

208.  The  composition  of  a  detachment  will  depend 
upon  the  nature  of  the  duty  to  be  performed,  the 
character  of  the  country  in  which  it  is  to  operate, 
the  distance  of  the  point  to  be  reached,  and  the  more 
or  less  celerity  required  in  the  operation.  As  a  gen- 
eral rule,  <Wfachments  should  be  formed  only  of  light 
troops,  Well  acquainted  with  their  duties ;  and  in 
every  /use  where  it  can  be  done,  they  should  consist 
of  ^proper  proportion  of  each  arm  of  the  service,  if 
Ifie  duty  upon  which  they  are  sent  is  of  an  import- 
ant  character.  By  this  combination  each  arm  U 
enabled  to  act  with  more  boldness  and  vigor,  fVom 
the  support  with  which  it  will   meet  in  others,  and 


86  DETACHMENTS. 

can  better  select  its  moment  for  action,  according  to 
the  character  of  the  ground  on  which  it  finds  itself.        ' 

209.  The  combats  of  detachments  will  be  mostly 
restricted  to  firing,  and  the  skillful  employment  of 
skirmishers.  The  troops  must  be  kept  perfectly  in  1 
hand  for  mutual  support,  the  artillery  keeping  near  i 
the  infantry,  and  the  cavalry,  whenever  the  opportu- 
dity  is  presented,  hazarding  only  short  but  vigorous 
charges  against  the  enemy. 

210.  The  officer  placed  in  command  of  a  detachment 
should  be  thoroughly  conversant  with  the  handling  , 
of  troops,  so  as  to  insure  constant  reciprocity  of  sup- 
port, and  to  be  able  to  seize  upon  those  opportunities 
of  bringing  the  proper  arm  into  action,  and  for  pass- 
ing from  the  defensive  to  the  offensive,  which  combats  \ 
between  small  bodies  of  troops  so  frequently  present. 

211.  March  of  Defachmenis — As  a  detachment  must     i 
rely  mainly  on  its  own  resources,  the  personnel  and     ' 
materiel  of  the   troops   should   be   rigidly  inspected 
before  marching,    to  see  that  the  men  and  horses  are     i 
in   a  sound  state,    that  nothing   is  wanting  in  their 
equipments,  that  the  gun  and  other  carriages  are  in 
good  traveling  order,   and  that  the  necessary  amount     j 
of  ammunition,    provisions,  and  forage   have   been 
provided  for  the  expedition.  j 

212.  Every  source   of  information  should  h^  cont.^J 
suited   with  respect  to  the   nature  of  the  roads,,  ^nd 
the  country  over  which  the  column  is  to  march,  and 
good  maps,  telescopes,  and  guides  should  be  provided,     i 
If  a  reconnoissance  of  the  line  of  march  has  been 
directed,   it  should  be  placed  in  charge  of  a  well 


DETACHMENTS.  gi^ 

informed  staff,  or  other  officer,  conversant  with  the 
duties  required  of  him,  so  that  the  commander  of 
the  detachment  may  be  accurately  informed  of  the 
state  of  the  roads,  as  to  their  practicability  for  men, 
horses  and  carriages,  particularly  the  number  of  hours 
of  march  from  station  to  station, and  the  character  of 
the  obstacles  with  which  he  may  be  liable  to  meet, 
from  the  state  of  the  bridges,  the  nature  of  the  water 
courses,  and  the  defiles  along  the  route. 

213.  In  order  to  avoid  being  anticipated  in  our 
object  by  the  enemy,  every  attention  should  be  paid 
to  preserve  strict  order  among  the  troops,  and  to 
advance  with  celerity,  so  that  secrecy  may  be  kept 
until  the  detachment  reaches  its  destination.  The 
troops,  for  this  purpose  should  be  kept  as  closely 
together  as  the  character  of  the  ground  will  permit; 
and  when  guides  are  employed,  they  must  be  strictly 
watched,  and  not  be  dismissed  until  the  march  is 
completed. 

214.  The  distribution  of  troops,  or  the  order  of 
march,  will  mainly  depend  upon  the  character  of  the 
country  ;  the  general  rule  to  be  followed  is  so  to  place 
each  arm  in  the  column,  that  the  troops  may  be 
formed  for  action  by  the  most  prompt  and  simple 
movements.  In  a  very  open  country,  the  greater 
part  of  the  cavalry  will  be  at  the  head  of  the  column ; 
where  it  is  somewhat  broken,  half  of  the  cavalry 
may  be  in  front,  and  the  remainder  in  the  rear,  and 
in  a  very  difficult  country  the  infantry  will  lead.  The 
artillery  may  be  placed  in  the  intervals  of  the  col- 
umn where  the  country  is  not  difficult;  in  the  con^- 

G 


90  DETACHMENTS. 

trary  case,  it  will  be  in  the  rear,  but  covered  by  a 
small  detachment  which  it  precedes. 

215.  The  column  must  be  secured  from  a  sudden 
attack  of  the  enemy  by  an  advanced-guard,  flankers, 
and  a  rear-guard.  The  advanced-guard  will  be  com- 
posed of  cavalry  or  infantry,  or  of  the  two  combined, 
according  to  the  character  of  the  country.  In  some 
-cases  it  may  be  well  to  have  two  or  three  light 
pieces  with  the  advanced-guard.  The  strength  of  the 
advanced-guard,  for  detachments  not  over  two  thous- 
and men,  need  not  be  greater  than  one-fifth  of  the 
whole;  for  larger  bodies  it  may  be  between  a  fourth 
and  a  third,  according  to  the  degree  of  resistance  it 
may  be  required  to  offer. 

216.  The  advajiced-guard  of  a  detachment  should 
seldom  leave  a  wider  interval  than  about  a  thousand 
paces  between  it  and  the  main  body.  In  a  broken 
country,  when  this  force  consists  of  infantry  alone, 
the  distance  should  be  less,  to  avoid  an  ambush.  The 
main  body  of  the  advanced-guard  should  always  be 
preceded  a  few  hundred  paces  by  a  strong  patrol  of 
cavalry  or  infantry,  to  search  the  ground  and  secure 
the  advanced-guard  from  falling  into  an  ambush,  or 
from  a  sudden  attack. 

217.  The  flankers  will  consist  mainly  of  a  few 
detachments,  which  march  parallel  to  the  column  and 
a  few  hundred  paces  from]  it,  according  to  the  char- 
acter of  the  ground;  these  will  throw  out  a  few  men, 

■  from  a  hundred  to  a  hundred  and  fifty  paces,  on  their 
exposed  flank,  to  keep  a  vigilant  look-out,  in  that 
direction,   for   the   enemy.     Occasional   patrols  may 


DETACHMENTS.  91 

also  be  sent  out  on  the  flanks,  when  it  is  deemed 
n|pessary  to  push  an  examination  to  some  distant 
point,  or  to  gain  a  height  offering  a  commanding 
view  of  the  country.  As  the  object  of  the  flankers 
is  rather  to  give  timely  notice  to  the  main  body  of 
an  enemy's  approach,  than  to  offer  any  serious  resist- 
ance, the  detachments  of  which  they  are  composed 
need  only  consist  of  a  few  men. 

218.  The  rear-guard,  except  in  a  very  broken  or 
mountainous  country,  which  would  offer  facilities  to 
the  enemy  for  slipping  to  the  rear,  need  only  be  a 
small  detachment,  placed  more  to  prevent  stragglers 
from  falling  to  the  rear  than  any  other  object. 

219.  Night  marches  should  not  be  made,  except  in 
case  of  necessity.  "When  their  object  is  to  surprise 
an  enemy,  if  there  be  an  advanced-guard,  it  should 
be  kept  near  the  head  of  the  column.  Patrols  should 
be  sent  forward,  with  orders  to  advance  with  great 
caution,  and  not  push  on  too  far.  Flying  patrols 
may,  if  requisite,  be  kept  on  the  flanks.  The  most 
exact  order  and  silence  should  be  maintained,  and 
extreme  vigilance  be  exercised  to  avoid  placing  the 
enemy  on  the  alert. 

220.  The  following  remarks,  on  the  subject  of 
marches,  are  taken  from  a  little  work,  "  On  the  Duties 
of  Troojis  composing  the  Advanced  Corps  of  an  Ar?ni/,^' 
by  Lieut.-Col.  Leach,  of  the  British  Army,  a  work 
which,  for  its  sound  practical  views,  made  in  the  vein 
of  a  judicious,  well-informed  soldier,  who  has  seen, 
service,  commends  itself  to  the  jioiioi's  of  the  profes- 
sion generally. 


92  DETACHMENTS. 

"At  the  time  the  following  orders  were  first  issued 
for  the  march  of  the  light-division,  in  the  summeiflbf 
1809,  on  its  route  from  Lisbon  toTalavera,  the  troops 
moved  off  by  whole  half  sections,  according  to  thd 
road ;  but,  at  a  later  period,  a  general  order  appeared, 
which  directed  that  the  infantry  should  march  by 
threes. 

"The  division  having  formed  in  rear  of  the  leading 
battalion,  at  whole,  half,  or  quarter  distance,  or  in 
close  column,  and  the  baggage  being  assembled  in 
rear  of  it,  the  march  was  commenced  with  precisely 
the  same  regularity  as  would  be  observed  by  a  regi- 
ment or  regiments  moving  in  or  out  of  a  garrison 
town ;  the  bands  playing,  the  light-infantry  with 
arms  sloped,  and  those  of  the  riflemen  slung  over  the 
shoulder,  the  officers  with  swords  drawn,  and  exact 
wheeling  distances  preserved,  and  perfect  silence 
observed. 

V  After  having  proceeded  a  short  distance  in  this 
manner,  the  word  of  command,  *  March  at  ease,'  was 
given  by  the  general  at  the  head  of  the  leading  bat- 
talion, and  this  was  passed  quickly  on  to  the  rear 
from  company  to  company.  The  captains,  instead  of 
continuing  at  the  head  of  their  companies,  dropped 
back  to  the  rear  of  them :  the  reasons  for  allotting 
this  station  to  them  was,  that  they  might  see  any  men 
of  their  respective  companies  who  attempted  to  leave 
the  ranks  without  leave.  The  officers  and  non-com- 
missioned officers  preserved  the  wheeling  distances. 
The  soldiers  now  carried  their  arms  in  any  manner 
most  convenient.     Some  slung  them  over  their  shoul- 


DETACHMENTS.  93 

ders,  (most  of  them,  indeed,  preferred  this  mode  as 
the  least  fatiguing,)  others  sloped  them,  and  many 
trailed  them,  and  they  constantly  changed  from  the 
right  hand  or  right  shoulder  to  the  left.  "Whilst 
some  lighted  their  short  black  pipes,  others  sung  or 
amused  their  comrades  with  stories  and  jest,  as  is 
usual  on  those  occasions.  Although  allowed  to  pros- 
ecute the  march  in  this  easy  and  unrestrained  manner 
a  heavy  penalty,  nevertheless,  awaited  the  man  who 
quitted  the  ranks  without  permission  from  the  captain 
or  officer  commanding  his  company.  The  captains 
were  always  provided  with  tickets  bearing  their  own 
signature,  on  each  of  which  was  written,  'The  bearer 
has  my  permission  to  fall  out  of  the  ranks,  being 
unable  to  proceed  with  the  regiment.'  Any  soldier 
found  on  the  line  of  march  by  the  rear-guard,  with- 
out a  ticket,  was  liable  to  be  punished  for  disobedience 
of  orders;  and,  as  no  difficulty  was  ever  experienced 
by  men  who  were  sick,  or  knocked  up,  in  procuring 
this  certiiicate  of  inability  to  keep  up  with  their  reg- 
iments, such  offenders  certainly  merited  punishment. 
"If  a  soldier  wanted  to  fall  out  of  the  ranks  for  a 
few  minutes  only,  he  was  required  to  ask  leave  of  the 
captain  to  do  so,  and,  moreover,  to  take  off  his  knap- 
sack, and  to  give  it,  together  with  his  musket,  in 
charge  of  the  men  of  his  own  section,  to  be  carried 
by  them  until  he  rejoined  them.  This  was  an  admira- 
ble order,  and  it  operated  in  two  ways ;  first,  the  sol- 
dier was  enabled,  not  being  encumbered  with  either 
knapsack  or  musket,  more  speedily  to  overtake  the  col- 
umn on  its    march;    and   secondly,   if  he    loitered 


94  DETACHMENTS. 

unnecessarily  on  the  way  to  rejoin  his  comrades,  "who 
were  doubly  burdened  with  his  arms  and  pack,  he 
would  be  certain  to  incur  their  displeasure. 

"About  once  in  every  hour  and  a  quarter  or  half, 
a  halt  was  ordered,  and  ten  or  twelve  minutes  allowed 
for  the  men  to  rest.  When  practicable,  this  was 
done  on  ground  near  which  there  was  water ;  but  it  is 
almost  unnecessary  to  add,  that  very  frequently  it 
was  not  possible  to  find  such  favorable  spots. 

"Preparatory  to  those  temporary  halts,  the  word 
of  command,  'Attention!'  was  given  at  the  head  of 
the  leading  regiment,  and  passed  on  rapidly  (as 
already  stated)  from  company  to  company.  Upon 
this,  the  captains  moved  quickly  from  the  rear  of 
their  companies  to  the  front;  the  arms  of  the  soldiers 
were  regularly  shouldered  or  slung  ;  perfect  silence 
was  observed ;  the  pipes  were  instantaneously  put  out 
of  sight,  either  in  the  haversacks  or  elsewhere;  the 
dressing  and  wheeling  distances  of  the  sections  were 
correctly  kept;  and  in  an  instant  there  was  a  magical 
change  from  apparent  irregularity  to  most  perfect 
discipline  and  order. 

"On  resuming  the  march  after  those  halts,  the 
troops  observe!  the  same  extreme  regularity  during 
the  first  hundred  or  two  of  yards,  as  I  have  already 
described.  The  words,  'March  at  ease,'  being  again 
given,  they  returned  to  the  song,  the  story,  and  the 
tobacco-pipe. 

"On  approaching  rivulets  or  shallow  pieces  of 
water,  which  it  was  necessary  should  be  passed,  nei- 
ther oflicers  nor  soldiers  were  allowed  to  pick  their 


DETACHMENTS.  95 

way  through,  nor  was  the  smallest  break  or  irregu- 
larity permitted  to  exist  in  the  ranks;  but  the  column 
marched  through  by  half  sections,  sections,  or  subdi- 
visions, (according  to  the  width  of  the  ford,)  preserv- 
ing the  same  order  as  if  moving  along  a  road. 

**That  this  regulation  was,  on  some  occasions,  too 
rigidly  enforced,  I  have  never  heard  disputed;  still, 
the  object  at  which  it  aimed,  viz:  that  of  expending 
as  little  time  as  possible  on  each  day's  march,  so  as  to 
give  the  soldiers  time  to  take  their  rest,  to  construct 
huts  in  the  bivouac,  to  wash  their  linen,  to  mend  their 
clothes  or  shoes,  to  draw  their  rations,  and  to  cook 
their  meals,  that  they  might  be  fresh  for  whatever 
fatigues  happened  to  be  in  store  for  them,  was  indis- 
putably a   desirable  one. 

*' Those  who  have  campaigned  know,  that  in  advanc- 
ing to  attack  an  enemy,  or  in  retiring  before  one,  the 
passage  of  rivers  in  the  line  of  march,  even  if  so 
deep  as  to  reach  their  middles,  and  under  the  fire  of 
an  enemy  also,  are  expected  to  be  crossed  by  the 
troops  without  a  greater  derangement  taking  place  in 
their  order  of  march  than  the  obstacles  which  they  are 
in  the  act  of  encountering,  must  necessarily  produce 
in  a  greater  or  less  degree. 

"With  a  detachment  consisting  of  a  few  hundred 
men,  at  a  distance  from  an  enemy,  and  with  ample 
time  before  them  to  get  over  their  day's  march,  it 
would  appear  that  this  order  might  well  be  dispensed 
with;  but  with  a  division  of  four  or  five  thousand 
men,  the  case  is  widely  different. 

"  Let  it  be  supposed  that  it  has  arrived  at  a  stream 


96  DETACHMENTS. 

which  admits  of  being  passed  by  sections,  subdivis- 
ions, or  even  by  companies ;  and  that,  instead  of  pro- 
ceeding straight  through  it  in  this  manner,  every 
soldier  is  permitted  to  pick  his  way  across  in  any 
manner  he  may  think  proper,  and  to  break  off  from 
his  place  in  the  ranks,  what  a  vast  loss  of  time  would 
this  occasion !  When  would  the  rear  of  the  column 
have  effected  its  passage?  Surely  the  patience  of 
those  belonging  to  the  front,  centre  and  rear  of  this 
body  of  four  thousand  soldiers  would  be  pretty  well 
exhausted  long  before  the  opposite  bank  was  gained 
by  the  whole,  and  the  march  resumed. 

"  In  the  rugged  and  mountainous  districts  which 
the  army  so  frequently  traversed  in  the  Peninsula, 
it  encountered  various  defiles  and  other  obstacles, 
which  precluded  the  possibility  of  their  being  passed 
except  by  a  very  small  number  of  men  at  a  time, 
and  the  following  mode  was  therefore  adopted  by 
each  company  in  making  its  way  along.  The  first 
company  of  the  leading  battalion,  as  soon  as  it  had 
disentangled  itself  from  the  defile,  or  broken  ground, 
was  directed  to  march  forward,  perhaps  about  a 
quarter  of  a  mile,  there  to  pile  arms,  and  the  men  to 
rest.  The  head  of  the  next  company,  when  it  had 
cleared  the  defile,  halted  about  thirty  or  forty  yards 
on  the  other  side,  until  all  the  men  belonging  to  it 
came  up  in  succession.  This  done,  the  captain  moved 
it  forward  independently  until  it  joined  the  leading 
company,  where  it  piled  arms.  Thus,  each  company, 
as  soon  as  it  had  cleared  the  obstacles,  was  brought 
up  en  masse,  and  at  a  regular  pace,  without  refer- 


DETACHMENTS.  97 

€nce  to  those  in  its  rear.  By  those  means  that  most 
un military  exhibition  of  file  after  file  running  on, 
like  a  string  of  wild  geese,  to  catch  those  in  their 
front,  was  entirely  avoided. 

*'  Few  things  tend  so  effectually  to  fatigue  and  irri- 
tate soldiers  who  are  already  jaded,  as  that  of  trot- 
ting on,  bending  under  the  weight  of  pack,  belts,  and 
musket,  to  overtake  those  who  continue  to  march  on 
in  their  front. 

221.  "  When  the  division  was  about  to  perform  a 
jnarch  not  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  an  enemy, 
the  following  arrangements  were  made  either  for 
bivouacking  or  quartering  it  (as  the  case  might  be), 
so  that  no  time  should  be  lost  after  it  had  reached  its 
destination. 

"A  staflf-oflficer,  accompanied  by  the  quartermasters 
of  the  division,  or  (if  other  duties  at  that  moment 
were  required  to  be  performed  by  the  quartermasters) 
by  a  subaltern  of  each  regiment,  preceded  the  troops 
on  horseback,  so  as  to  arrive  long  before  them  at  the 
ground  on  which  they  were  to  halt  for  the  day,  or  at 
the  town  or  village  in  which  it  was  intended  they 
should  be  quartered. 

"A  whole  street,  or  part  of  one  (as  circumstances 
admitted),  was  allotted  by  the  stafT-oflficer  to  the 
quartermasters  for  each  of  their  regiments,  who  im- 
mediately divided  the  street  into  equal  portions  for 
the  different  companies,  reserving  a  house  or  two  for 
the  staff  of  the  regiment. 

*'  A  sergeant  of  every  company  of  the  division  be- 
ing sent  forward  so  as  to  arrive  long  before  the  troops, 


98  DETACHMENTS. 

and  being  told  by  his  quartermaster  how  many  and 
what  buildings  were  set  apart  for  his  own  people, 
again  subdivided  the  houses  into  four  equal  parts  for 
each  of  the  sections. 

**In  the  event  of  any  noise  or  disturbance  taking 
place,  whether  by  day  or  by  night,  the  probabilities 
were,  that  the  oflScers  belonging  to  the  companies 
where  such  irregularities  were  going  on,  would  cer- 
tainly hear  it,  and  as  instantaneously  put  an  end 
to  it. 

*'If,  then,  the  division  marched  into  a  town,  each 
company  was  by  its  sergeant  conducted  to  the  houses 
allotted  to  it,  in  which  they  were  established  in  a 
very  few  minutes.  It  rarely  happened,  therefore, 
that  the  soldiers  were  kept  waiting  in  the  streets 
for  any  length  of  time,  as  has  too  often  been  the 
case. 

"Should  it,  on  the  other  hand,  have  been  intended 
to  bivouac  the  division,  instead  of  putting  it  into 
houses,  arrangements  of  a  similar  nature  were  adopt- 
ed, by  sending  forward  oflacers  and  sergeants  to  take 
up  the  ground,  by  which  means  each  company 
marched  at  once  up  to  its  own  sergeant,  on  whom 
they  formed  in  open  column. 

"  The  rolls  were  immediately  called ;  the  men  first 
for  duty  were  warned  for  guards  (also  inlying  and 
outlying  pickets,  if  near  the  enemy),  for  fatigue  du- 
ties, to  draw  the  rations,  to  procure  wood  for  cook- 
ing, if  none  was  near  at  hand,  to  go  for  water,  if  no 
river  flowed  near  the  encampment,  &c.,  &c. 

"This  done,  and  the  alarm-post,  or  place  of  gen- 


DETACHMENTS.  99 

eral  assembly,  having  been  pointed  out  to  every  one, 
the  men  were  dismissed,  the  arms  piled,  the  cooking 
immediately  commenced,  and  all  further  parades 
were  dispensed  with  for  the  day,  except  a  roll-call 
about  sunset. 

"Parties  to  procure  forage,  whether  green  or  dry, 
were  sent  out  in  charge  of  an  officer  as  soon  as  the 
troops  were  dismissed. 

222.  "Amongst  the  various  regulations  laid  down 
for  the  light  division,  I  must  not  omit  to  mention 
what  were  termed  mule-guards. 

"A  corporal  and  three  privates  of  every  company, 
mounted  guard  at  nightfall,  whenever  the  division 
was  encamped.  The  particular  duty  expected  from 
the  sentinels  of  these  company  guards,  was  to  keep 
an  eye  to  the  baggage  animals  belonging  to  tjieir 
officers  (which  were  picketed  to  the  trees  or  fastened 
in  some  other  manner),  and  to  prevent  them  from 
breaking  loose. 

"After  the  establishment  of  those  little  guards, 
but  few  instances  occurred  of  whole  troops  of  noisy 
mules,  horses  and  asses  chasing  each  other  round  and 
through  the  camp  or  bivouac,  and  galloping  over  the 
faces  and  bodies  of  the  soldiers  whilst  they  were 
asleep. 

"  Independent  of  their  utility  in  this  way,  every 
company  in  the  division,  having  its  own  sentinel, 
was  sure  to  be  instantly  apprised  of  any  alarm  during 
the  night  from  the  pickets  in  front;  and  they  were 
enabled,    also,    to  communicate   to   their   respective 


100  DETACHMENTS. 

companies,  without  the  least  delay,  any  orders  arriv- 
ing at  the  camp, 

:  *'  Those  only  who  have  witnessed  it  can  thoroughly 
understand  with  what  uncommon  facility  and  dis- 
patch the  division  could  suddenly  get  under  arms, 
form  in  column  of  march,  load  the  baggage,  and 
proceed  on  the  route  chalked  out  for  it." 

223.  Defensive  Measures  of  Detachments. — In  the 
combats  of  detachments,  whether  offensive  or  defen- 
sive, as  the  employment  of  skirmishers  is  the  prin- 
cipal means  resorted  to,  and  the  troops,  but  in  rare 
cases,  act  in  mass  against  the  enemy,  positions  should 
be  chosen  which  will  be  favorable  for  this  kind  of 
combat.  It  but  seldom  happens,  in  selecting  a  posi- 
tion for  the  defensive,  that  strong  points  can  be  found 
to  secure  the  wings  from  an  attack  ;  but  no  position 
should  be  taken  up  which  does  not  present  covers  for 
the  infantry;  good  points  for  the  action  of  the  artil- 
lery, where  it  will  be  but  little  exposed,  as  well  as 
shelters  where  the  cavalry  may  be  kept  at  hand, 
ready  for  any  emergency,  and  unexposed  to  the  fire 
of  the  enemy's  artillery. 

224.  The  natural  features  of  the  position  will  ne- 
cessarily determine  the  dispositions  for  the  defense. 
It  must,  however,  be  borne  in  mind,  that,  as  it  is  es- 
sential to  keep  the  troops  well  in  hand  for  mutual 
support,  they  must  not  be  too  much  dispersed,  and 
that  a  position  which  requires  this  cannot  be  vigor- 
ously defended.  The  artillery  should  be  kept  within 
a  hundred  paces  of  the  main-body  of  the  infantry, 
and  the  cavalry  at  about  two  hundred  paces.     Offen- 


DETACHMENTS.  101 

sive  movements  will  be  mostly  left  to  the  cavalry, 
which  should  be  held  in  reserve  as  long  as  possible^ 
in  order  that  it  may  act  with  the  more  effect  upon 
the  enemy  when  he  is  weakened.  The  infantry 
should  only  resort  to  the  bayonet  under  very  favora- 
ble circumstances,  as,  when  acting  in  mass,  it  will 
be  more  exposed  to  the  enemy's  fire,  and  be  more  in 
danger  of  being  surrounded. 

225.  Defiles  in  the  rear  of  a  position  do  not  present 
the  same  dangers  to  small  as  they  do  to  large  bodies 
of  troops,  and  may  indeed  be  very  favorable  to  the 
defense  in  a  retreat;  but  a  position  should  not  be 
taken  up  too  far  in  advance  of  a  defile,  as  it  might 
give  tljp  enemy  an  opportunity  of  cutting  off  the  re- 
treat of  the  detachment.  "Whenever  this  danger  is 
to  be  apprehended,  it  must  be  guarded  against  by 
flankers,  whose  duty  it  will  be  to  give  timely  warning 
to  the  main-body  of  any  movement  of  the  enemy  to 
gain  their  rear. 

226.  If  the  detachment  is  forced  to  retreat,  the 
greatest  attention  must  be  given  to  keep  the  troops 
well  together,  and  to  inspire  them  with  confidence 
in  their  mutual  support.  Every  advantage  should  be 
taken  of  the  strong  features  of  the  ground  for  check- 
ing the  enemy,  by  occupying  it  with  skirmishers. 
A  portion  of  the  cavalry  should  be  always  at  hand 
to  act  offensively  when  occasion  offers.  The  artil- 
lery will  retire  by  half  batteries,  or  sections,  for  the 
purpose  of  taking  up  successive  positions  to  secure 
the  retreat  of  the  main-body.  Whenever  a  defile  is 
met  on  the  line  of  retreat,  the  entrance  to  it  should 


102  DETACHMENTS. 

be  timely  secured,  by  occupying  every  strong  point 
near  it,  to  cover  the  retreating  column.  If  the  defile 
is  of  a  character  that  admits  of  interior  defense,  some 
men  should  be  sent  in  advance  to  raise,  at  suitable 
points,  barriers,  or  any  other  obstacles  that  will  serve 
as  shelters  from  which  the  enemy  can  be  held  in 
check. 

227.  Defense  of  Defiles. — The  term  defile  is  applied 
to  any  narrow  passage  through  which  troops  can 
only  pass  in  column,  or  by  a  flank ;  such,  for  exam-' 
pie,  as  roads  confined  between  mountains,  causeways 
through  marshes,  a  bridge,  «&c. 

228.  Defiles  are  occupied  either  to  secure  them  for 
our  own  purposes,  or  to  prevent  an  enemy  fro]^  pass- 
ing them.  In  either  case,  the  position  taken  up  by 
the  troops,  whether  in  advance  of  or  in  the  rear  of 
the  defile,  to  hold  it  will  depend  upon  its  length  and 
the  features  of  the  ground  at  its  outlets.  If  the 
ground  in  advance  is  open  to  the  enemy's  fire,  the 
entrance  to  the  defile  cannot  be  defended  with  any 
chance  of  success.  In  like  manner,  if  the  ground  in 
the  rear  is  of  the  same  character,  and  within  range 
of  the  enemy's  fire,  it  will  not  be  practicable  to 
prevent  the  enemy  from  debouching,  if  in  sufficient 
force. 

229.  When  the  defile  is  to  be  secured  for  our  own 
use,  the  ground  in  advance  must  be  occupied,  by 
taking  advantage  of  all  the  natural  features  favorable 
to  the  defense.  The  flanks  of  the  position  should, 
if  practicable,  rest  upon  points  tliat  the  enemy  will 
not  be  able  to  turn.     The  entrance  will  be  guarded 


DETACHMENTS.  103 

by  a  strong  detachment,  and  if  there  are  points  with- 
in the  defile  which  would  be  favorable  for  checking 
the  enemy,  in  case  of  retreat,  they  should  be  pre- 
pared for  defense,  by  using  such  means  as  may  be 
found  at  hand  for  strengthening  them. 

230.  If  it  be  deemed  advisable  to  take  position  in 
rear  of  the  defile  rather  than  in  front,  the  entrance 
to  it  should  be  occupied  by  a  small  detachment,  for 
the  purpose  of  observing  the  enemy ;  and  if  there 
are  points  on  the  flanks  of  the  defile  which,  if  in  pos- 
session of  the  enemy,  would  render  him  master  of  it, 
they  must  be  strongly  guarded. 

231.  The  detachment  for  the  defense  of  a  defile  will 
be  composed  of  one  or  several  arms,  according  to  the 
character  of  the  ground.  Each  arm  will  be  posted 
on  the  points  most  favorable  to  its  action,  and  for  mu- 
tual support.  If  the  position  taken  up  be  in  rear  of 
the  defile,  the  artillery  should  be  placed  at  three  or 
four  hundred  paces  in  the  rear,  so  as  to  command  by 
its  fire  the  interior  and  outlet.  The  cavalry  should 
be  at  some  two  hundred  paces  back,  ready  to  charge 
the  enemy  in  flank  as  he  debouches.  The  skirmishers 
should  seize  upon  every  point  near  the  outlet  from 
which  the  enemy  can  be  reached,  both  within  the  de- 
file and  as  he  dbbouches  from  it,  whilst  the  main-body 
of  the  infantry  will  be  posted  on  the  right  and  left 
of  the  outlet,  in  the  best  positions  for  throwing  in  a 
heavy  fire,  and  then  driving  back  the  enemy  with 
the  bayonet. 

232.  When  a  position  taken  in  advance  of  a  de- 
file is  likely  to  be  forced,  the  retreat  should  be  com- 


104  DETACHMENTS. 

menced  by  sending  all  the  artillery  except  two  pieces' 
to  the  rear,  to  take  a  position  to  secure  the  outlet. 
A  portion  of  the  cavalry  will  next  retire,  the  rest 
remaining  with  the  rear-guard,  to  check  by  its 
charges  the  enemy,  should  he  press  on  with  vigor  to 
seize  the  entrance.  The  main-body  of  the  infantry 
will  next  retire  by  the  usual  movements,  either  from 
the  centre  or  the  wings,  as  the  case  may  require. 
The  rear-guard  having  secured  the  entrance  until  the 
main-body  is  far  enough  to  the  rear  to  be  out  of 
danger,  will  retire,  the  cavalry  or  the  infantry  lead- 
ing, as  the  defile  may  present  features  most  favorable 
to  the  action  of  the  one  or  the  other  arm.  As  the 
troops  successively  clear  the  outlet,  they  will  take 
position  to  receive  the  enemy,  should  he  attempt  to 
force  a  passage. 

233.  In  mountainous  passes,  where  the  flanks  of 
the  defile  can  be  attained  by  the  heights  falling  inta 
the  hands  of  the  enemy's  skirmishers,  these  points 
must  be  occupied  by  detachments,  as  well  as  all  paths 
or  roads  leading  to  the  flanks,  or  to  the  rear  of  the 
defile.  The  reserves  of  the  detachments  should  oc- 
cupy in  preference  points  where  cross-roads  meet. 
The  communications  between  the  detachments  and 
the  main-body  must  be  well  preserved,  and  if  the  de- 
tachments are  driven  in,  they  must  fall  back  on  their 
supports,  and  occupy  other  points  on  the  flanks  pre- 
viously designated.  A  retreat,  under  such  circum- 
stances will  demand  the  greatest  circumspection,  and 
great  unity  of  action.     To  secure  the  retreat  of  the 


DETACHMENTS.  105 

rear-guard,  the  lateral  issues  should  be  well  guarded 
by  detachments. 

234.  Bridges  and  dikes  are  defended  in  the  same 
manner  as  ether  defiles.  A  bridge  in  an  open  coun- 
tr}^  particularly  one  over  a  small  water-course,  is 
not  susceptible  of  a  good  defense,  and  the  best  thing 
to  bo  done  to  render  the  passage  useless  to  the  enemy, 
is  to  destroy  it.  If  the  country  on  the  side  toward 
the  enemy  is  open,  whilst  on  the  opposite  side  it  is 
broken  so  as  to  present  good  covers  for  the  troops,  a 
position  may  be  taken  up  behind  the  bridge,  and  the 
defense  be  conducted  in  the  usual  manner.  If,  on 
the  enemy's  side,  the  ground  is  broken,  whilst  the 
other  side  is  open,  a  defense  can  only  be  attempted 
at  great  risk ;  as,  in  case  of  being  forced  to  retreat, 
the  movement  must  be  made  under  strong  disadvan- 
tages, arising  from  the  exposed  position  of  the  flanks 
of  the  retreating  force,  whilst  on  the  bridge,  to  fire, 
as  well  as  that  of  the  position  which  must  be  taken 
up  on  the  opposite  side,  if  an  attempt  is  made  to  ar- 
rest the  enemy  at  the  outlet  of  the  bridge.  When 
both  ends  of  the  bridge  are  favorable  to  defense,  the 
side  towards  the  enemy  may  be  occupied  by  a  de- 
tachment, whilst  the  main-body  takes  position  on  the 
opposite  side. 

235.  Fords  can  only  bo  defended  with  safety  by 
taking  up  a  position  behind  them  when  the  ground 
presents  good  covers  near  enough  to  the  point  of 
crossing  to  bring  a  strong  fire  on  the  enemy  whilst 
passing.  Fords  are  usually  the  more  difificult  of  de- 
fense, as  several  are  frequently  found  in   the  same 

H 


106  DETACHMENTS. 

vicinity.  The  best  plan  to  be  re3ortecl  to  generally, 
is  to  endeavor  to  obstruct  them  by  any  means  at 
hand. 

236.  Villages,  ^-c. — Villages  which  are  accessible 
on  all  sides,  should  not  be  occupied  by  a  detachment 
which  is  obliged  to  rely  only  on  its  own  resources; 
but  when  they  are  so  situated  that  they  can  be  ap- 
proached by  the  enemy  only  in  front,  having  their 
flanks  covered  by  natural  obstacles,  and  the  ground 
in  their  rear  being  favorable  to  a  movement  of  re- 
treat, they  may  be  defended  with  success,  provided 
they  are  not  commanded  by  the  ground  in  ad- 
vance, within  the  range  of  fire-arms,  and  that  the 
approaches  to  them  can  be  swept  by  the  fire  of  the 
defense. 

237.  On  occupying  a  village,  the  commanding 
officer  should  immediately  make  himself  acquainted 
with  the  environs  to  at  least  within  the  range  of  fire- 
arms, and  lose  no  time  in  erecting  such  obstacles  as 
barricades  across  the  streets,  abatis,  &c.,  as  the  means 
at  his  disposal  will  permit. 

238.  The  defense  will  mainly  fall  upon  the  infant- 
ry, which  should  be  divided  into  three  parties  for  this 
object;  the  one  will  occupy  all  favorable  points 
where  cover  can  be  obtained  on  the  outskirts  of  the 
village,  such  as  ditches,  inclosures,  &c.;  another,  di- 
vided into  a  suitable  number  of  detachments,  will  be 
posted,  under  cover,  on  the  most  accessible  avenues 
to  the  position  occupied  by  the  first,  of  which  they 
will  form  the  supports  ,  the  third  will  form  one  or 
more  reserves,    according   to   the   extent  of  ground 


DETACHMENTS.  107 

taken  up,  and  will  be  posted  at  some  central  point 
most  convenient  to  act,  according  as  circumstances 
may  demand. 

239.  The  artillery  will  be  placed  at  those  points 
where  it  can  best  sweep  the  ground  over  which  the 
enemy  must  approach  to  attack  the  weak  points 
of  the  position.  It  should  be  covered  by  an  epaul- 
ment,  and  be  masked  until  it  is  necessary  to  open  its 
tire. 

240.  Cavalry  can  aid  but  little  in  the  interior  de- 
fense of  a  village;  if  it  form  a  part  of  the  detach- 
ment, it  may  take  post  so  as  to  secure  the  flanks  of 
the  village,  if  they  are  not  well  covered ;  otherwise, 
a  position  should  be  taken  by  it  in  the  rear,  to  be 
ready  to  cover  the  retreat,  if  the  other  troops  should 
be  driven  out  by  the  enemy. 

241.  In  the  defense  of  a  village,  the  detachment, 
unless  it  should  find  itself  decidedly  superior  to  the 
enemy,  will  rely  mainly  upon  the  effects  of  its  fire. 
Sorties  may  be  attempted,  if  the  enemy  commits  any 
blunder,  such  as  exposing  himself  to  a  flank  attack, 
or  not  supporting  well  his  advanced  line.  "When  a 
sortie  is  decided  upon,  the  point  from  which  it  is 
made  should  be  strongly  occupied,  to  cover  the  party 
sallying  out  in  case  of  a  repulse.  The  party  for 
the  sortie  should  attack  with  vigor,  but  with  due 
precautions  against  being  cut  off";  and  if  they  suc- 
ceed in  driving  back  the  enemy,  they  must  not  en- 
gage in  a  headlong  pursuit,  but  fall  back  under  cover 
of  the  party  holding  the  point  from  which  they 
sallied. 


108  DETACHMENTS. 

242.  If  the  troops  occupying  the  exterior  line  are 
in  danger  of  being  turned  by  a  flank  attack,  they 
must  retire  upon  the  village,  and  take  up  positions 
previously  designated  for  this  contingency.  To  in- 
sure good  order  and  steadiness  in  this  movement,' 
the  supports  should  hold  the  enemy  in  check  by  a 
sortie  on  his  flank. 

243.  When  it  is  found  that  the  village  must  be 
evacuated,  the  supports  will  act  with  the  line  of  skir- 
mishers, to  delay  the  progress  of  the  enemy,  by 
disputing  every  favorable  point,  in  order  that  the 
reserves  may  have  time  to  retire  and  take  up  a  posi- 
tion in  the  rear,  to  secure  the  retreat  of  the  troops 
still  engaged. 

In  the  retreat,  the  troops  falling  back  on  their  sup- 
ports, or  reserves,  should  be  careful  not  to  place 
themselves  so  as  to  obstruct  either  their  movements 
or  their  fire  upon  the  enemy. 

244.  Inclosures  and  Houses. — In  the  defense  of 
posts,  it  frequently  becomes  necessary  to  occupy  iso- 
lated houses  and  strong  farm-yard  inclosures,  to  pre- 
vent the  approach  of  the  enemy  on  some  point.  In 
such  cases  the  doors  and  windows  through  which  an 
enemy  might  force  his  way  in,  must  be  strongly  bar-, 
ricaded;  those  from  which  a  good  fire  can  be  brought 
to  bear  upon  the  enemj'-,  should  be  arranged  to  give 
the  men  secure  shelter  whilst  firing;  loop-holes  must 
also  be  made  through  the  walls  to  give  more  fire. 
If  circumstances  require  that  the  house  be  held  to 
the  last  extremity,  the  arrangements  in  the  interior 


BETACHMKNTS.  109 

must  be  made  to  defend  it  story  by  story,  until  the 
object  be  attained  is  accomplished. 

245.  The  distribution  of  the  troops  will  depend  on 
the  character  of  the  inclosure.  When  it  is  spacious 
and  open,  the  usual  distribution  of  a  line  ot  troops 
around  the  walls,  with  supports  and  a  reserve,  will 
be  made.  In  a  house,  the  troops  will  be  divided  into 
several  parties,  each  under  the  command  of  a  subal- 
tern or  non-commissioned  officer,  who  will  direct  the 
defense  of  their  respective  stories.  When  there  are 
men  enough,  two  should  be  placed  at  each  loop-hole, 
and  a  small  reserve  be  kept  in  the  most  sheltered  spot 
at  hand.  The  main  reserve  will  occupy  the  point 
most  convenient  to  fall  upon  the  enemy  should  he 
force  his  way  in.  The  men  at  the  loop-holes  should 
be  cautioned  not  to  throw  away  their  fire,  and  at 
suitable  intervals  they  should  be  relieved  by  men 
from  the  reserve. 

•  246.  It  is  but  seldom  that  artillery  can  be  used  in 
these  cases.  Some  pieces  may  be  posted  with  advan- 
tage in  inclosures.  Cavalry  can  be  of  no  service,  ex- 
cept it  can  act  in  ambush  from  some  point  where  it 
may  fall  on  the  enemy's  flank. 

247.  General  Measures  for  the  Atiack. — The  dispo- 
sitions made  for  the  attack  by  the  commanding 
officer  of  a  detachment,  will  necessarily  be  based 
upon  the  defensive  me'asures  of  the  enemy.  There- 
fore, in  the  first  place,  a  correct  knowledge  should  be 
gained  of  the  position  taken  up  by  the  enemy,  and  the 
manner  in  which  his  troops  are  distributed  for  its 
defense.     The  points  to  which  attention  will  be  di- 


110  DETACHMENTS. 

reeled  in  these  respects,  are,  first,  the  natural  fea- 
tures of  the  position  as  adapted  to  a  good  defense; 
and  second,  the  distribution  of  the  troops. 

248.  On  the  first  point,  the  character  of  the  ground 
in  front  of  the  enemy's  position,  as  to  its  capabil- 
ities for  the  effective  action  of  infantry,  cavalry 
and  artillery,  must  be  carefully  examined ;  the  flanks 
of  the  position,  as  to  the  practicability  of  turning 
them  ;  finally,  its  rear,  as  ofiering  a  secure  retreat  to 
the  enemy. 

249.  On  the  second  point,  we  must  endeavor  to 
ascertain  whether  the  enemy,  in  posting  his  troops, 
has  taken  advantage  of  the  features  of  ground  in  his 
front,  by  placing  each  arm  on  those  points  most  favor- 
able to  its  action ;  whether  the  extent  of  ground 
taken  up  by  the  enemy  is  susceptible  of  a  strong 
defense  by  the  troops  which  occupy  it;  whether  the 
different  arms  are  so  posted  as  to  give  a  mutual  sup- 
port ;  whether  the  enemy  has  neglected  to  give  proper 
supports  and  reserves,  or  to  place  them  within  suita- 
ble distances;  whether  he  has  crowded  too  many 
troops  upon  one  point,  or  has  posted  too  few  on 
another ;  whether  the  points  occupied  by  any  portion 
of  the  troops,  particularly  by  the  artillery,  or  cav- 
alry, are  exposed  to  an  enfilading  fire  of  our  own 
artillery ;  whether  his  fianks  are  assailable ;  whether 
there  are  defiles  to  his  rear  which  he  has  omitted  to 
occupy;  finally,  whether  he  has  neglected  to  guard 
avenues  by  which  either  his  flanks  or  rear  may  be 
reached. 

250.  If  the  enemy's  troops  are  well  posted  in  front. 


DETACHMENTS.  Ill 

occupying  all  the  advantageous  points  presented  by 
the  ground,  and  well  supported,  we  must  look  to  see 
what  can  be  done  by  operating  on  his  flanks,  or  by 
turning  his  position  and  gaining  his  rear,  whilst  a 
feigned  attack  is  made  on  his  front.  If  the  extent  of 
his  position  is  too  great,  and  his  troops  too  much 
dispersed,  his  flanks  may  be  menaced  whilst  a  serious 
attack  is  made  on  his  front. 

251.  Attacks  on  the  flanks  by  a  portion  of  the 
troops  are  very  favorable  against  an  enemy  not 
prompt  at  manoeuvring;  but,  when  made  against  a 
skilful,  active  enemy,  we  expose  ourselves  to  the  same 
attack  that  we  attempt  against  him,  besides  weaken- 
ing our  front. 

252.  In  moving  forward  to  the  attack,  the  troops 
should  be  kept  well  in  hand  for  mutual  support.  The 
artillery  and  cavalry  should  avail  themselves  of  all 
covers  presented  by  the  ground,  to  avoid  exposure  to 
the  enemy's  artillery.  The  artillery  should  reserve 
its  fire  until  it  can  open  with  a  decided  cftect  to  clear 
the  way  for  the  action  of  the  main  body,  leaving  to 
the  skirmishers  to  push  forward,  and  by  their  fir6 
drive  the  enemy  from  his  covers.  If,  however,  there 
are  points  from  which  the  enemy  cannot  be  well  dis- 
lodged without  the  aid  of  artillery,  it  should  be 
brought  early  into  action,  to  avoid  the  bloodshed  of 
unavailing  attacks  of  the  infantry.  In  no  case  should 
the  artillery  be  isolated,  but  always  covered  by  a 
strong  escort;  otherwise  it  might  at  any  moment  fall 
into  the  enemy's  hands. 

253.  In  attacks  of  the  character  in  question,  wher6 


112  DETACHMENTS. 

the  skirmishers  play  so  important  a  part,  they  will 
be  required  to  resort  frequently  to  the  bayonet,  to 
dislodge  the  enemy  fully  from  his  covers ;  whenever 
an  opportunity  offers,  some  cavalry  should  he  at  hand 
to  take  advantage  of  the  retreat  of  the  enemy  when 
driven  from  such  points. 

254.  The  cavalry  in  its  charges,  however  dashingly 
made,  should  use  due  circumspection,  and  not  ven- 
ture too  far  in  a  headlong  pursuit,  for  fear  of  being 
brought  up  suddenly  by  the  enemy,  advantageously 
posted  to  profit  by  such  faults. 

255.  The  infantry  will  only  act  in  mass  and  with 
the  bayonet  when  the  enemy  has  been  well  wearied 
by  the  fire  of  its  skirmishers  and  artillery ;  if,  when 
driven  from  his  position,  the  enemy  can  be  forced 
upon  a  defile,  a  few  rounds  of  grape  followed  up  by 
the  bayonet  can  seldom  fail  of  completing  his  destruc- 
tion. 

256.  Attack  of  Defiles. — The  length  of  a  defile  and 
the  circumstance  of  its  being  prepared  by  barricades 
within  it,  to  protract  the  defense,  are  points  of  grave 
importance  in  planning  an  attack.  "When  the  length 
is  so  great  that  the  outlet  is  beyond  the  range  of  our 
cannon,  the  troops  will  not  be  able  to  pass  it,  except 
under  the  most  favorable  circumstances,  as  the  enemy 
can  make  the  best  dispositions  at  a  short  distance  from 
the  outlet,  to  crush  the  troops  which  first  attempt  to 
dehouche.  If  the  defile  is  barricaded,  the  barricades 
should  not  be  attacked  in  front,  except  for  ver}-  grave 
reasons,  as,  if  skilfully  defended,  they  can  only  be 
carried  at  great  cost  of  life. 


DETACHMENTS.  113 

257.    In  attacking   the   entrance   of  a  defile,   the 
troops  should  approach   along  the  most  convenient 
and  best  sheltered  avenues,  and  deploy  when  a  little 
beyond   musket    range.     The    skirmishers   and    the 
artillery  should  profit  by  the  ground,  in  taking  posi- 
tions favorable  both   for  shelter,    and  to  reach  with 
their  fire  the  enemy's  troops.     Skirmishers  should  be 
directed   to  close  in,  particularly   on  the  obstacles  by 
which  the  flanks  of  the  enemy's  position  are  strength- 
ened, and  endeavor  to  dislodge  his  troops  from  them. 
The  main-body,  held  in  reserve  to  carry  the  entrance 
with  the  bayonet,  so  soon  as  it  is  seen  that  a  serious 
impression  has  been  made  by  the  fire,  should  be  kept 
under  cover,   and  as  near  at  hand  as  the  ground  will 
permit.     If  the   enemy  gives  way,    the  main  body 
should  make  a  vigorous  attack  in  mass  with  the  bay- 
onet, and,  following  up  closely  the  retreating  troops, 
endeavor  to  secure   the  outlet  by  debouching  from  it 
before  the  front  is  so  far  unmasked  by  the  retreating 
troops  as  to  enable  those,   in  position   for  its  defense, 
to  act  with  freedom.     As  fast  as  the  troops  dehouche^ 
they  must  occupy  the  ground  in  front  of  the  outlet 
strongly,  leaving  a  sufficient  force  for  the  immediate 
defence  of  the  outlet.     The  reserve  should  remain  at 
the  other  extremity  of  the  defile  to  act  as  circumstan- 
ces may  require.     So  soon  as   we  find  ourselves  in 
secure  possession  of  the  defile,  a  part  of  the  reserve, 
with  all  the  cavalry,  should  pass  and  take  positions 
indicated   on  the  opposite  side.     The  greater  part  of 
the  artillery  follows,  and  takes  position  on  the  flanks 
to  open  its  fire  on  the  retiring  enemy. 


114  DETACHMENTS. 

258.  If  the  attack  on  the  entrance  to  the  defile  is 
unsuccessful,  the  troops  will  retire  hehind  their 
reserves,  the  latter  covering  this  movement,  and 
holding  the  enemy  in  check  should  he  attempt  a  pur- 
suit. If  a  renewed  attack  is  ordered,  the  troops  first 
in  action  will  form  a  reserve  for  the  fresh  troops 
thrown  forward. 

259.  When  it  is  found  impracticable  to  force  the 
entrance  by  direct  attack,  resort  must  be  had  to  strat- 
agem, by  pushing  forward  a  few  troops  to  act  on  the 
enemy's  flanks,  'and  try  to  dislodge  him  from  the 
obstacles  by  which  they  are  covered.  If  this  attempt 
is  successful,  the  troops  in  action  must  be  gradually 
reinforced  to  gain  supports  for  the  flanks  of  the  col- 
umn of  attack  in  its  advance  movement.  As  the 
column  penetrates  the  defile,  ground  must  be  gradu- 
ally gained  by  throwing  forward  fresh  troops  which 
dislodge  the  enemy,  secure  the  issues  in  case  of  retreat, 
and  hold  the  points  of  support  on  the  flanks. 

260.  In  the  attack  of  defiles  forming  mountainous 
passes,  the  column  of  attack  must  be  well  covered  on 
the  flanks,  by  detachments  which  make  a  simultane- 
ous attack  on  the  enemy's  posts  on  the  heights,  to 
prevent  the  one  from  afibrding  support  to  the  other. 
These  detachments  should  be  strong  enough  for  the 
duty  assigned,  so  that  should  any  post  offer  a  vigor- 
ous resistance,  they  may  be  enabled  to  renew  their 
attacks  with  fresh  troops. 

261.  Two-thirds  of  the  detachments  will  act  as 
skirmishers,  the  other  third  will  be  held  in  reserve. 
So  soon  as  any  post  is  carried,  the  reserves  will  occupy 


DETACHMENTS.  115 

it.  "When  the  skirmishers  move  forward,  a  portion 
or  the  whole  of  the  reserve  will  follow,  as  circum- 
stances may  demand.  There  should  be  no  intermis- 
sion in  the  attacks  when  once  commenced,  but  the 
enemy  be  driven  by  alternate  attacks  of  fire  and  the 
bayonet,  from  point  to  point,  to  enable  the  detach- 
ments gradually  to  gain  the  immediate  borders  of  the 
defile,  so  as  to  reach  the  rear  of  the  enemy's  troops,  and 
force  them  to  retire.  The  'main  body,  in  the  mean- 
time, should  occupy  the  enemy  in  front,  to  prevent 
him  from  sending  succor  to  the  posts  that  secure  hrs 
rear  and  flanks. 

262.  AUacks  of  Villages,  tj-c— As  villages,  when 
occupied  with  a  view  to  defense,  are  usually  prepared 
for  it  by  the  addition  of  artificial  obstacles  to  those 
which  the  position  naturally  presents,  an  open  attack 
upon  them  should,  when  practicable,  be  avoided,  as 
it  can  only  succeed,  if  the  assailed  perform  their  duty, 
at  great  loss  of  life  to  the  assailant.  In  any  case^ 
whether  made  openly  or  otherwise,  attacks  of  this 
kind  ought  not  to  be  hazarded  except  with  superior 
numbers,  unless  the  enemy  be  very  inferior  in  discip- 
line. 

263.  In  conducting  the  attack  of  a  village,  the 
troops  should  endeavor  to  approach  their  points  of 
attack  by  avenues  which  will  affbrd  them  cover  from 
the  enemy's  fire  until  they  arrive  near  them,  and 
should  particularly  try  to  gain  any  commanding 
points  from  which  a  plunging  fire  may  be  brought  to 
bear  on  the  enemy's  covered  defences. 

264.  The  most  favorable  points  of  attack  are  those 


116  DETACHMENTS. 

which,  are  salient,  as  tliey  are  naturally  weak;  those 
where  there  are  no  prepared  defenses,  or  where  they 
are  but  slight ;  and  the  flanks  and  rear,  when  they  are 
accessible,  or  are  not  well  secured  by  troops  so  posted 
as  to  cover  them. 

-  265.  The  attack  will  mainly  devolve  upon  the 
infantry.  The  artillery,  by  taking  suitable  positions 
either  to  enfilade  any  part  of  the  enemy's  line  which 
lies  exposed  to  its  fire,  to  dismount  the  enemy's  guns, 
or  to  throw  shells  from  its  howitzers  into  inclosures, 
will  prepare  the  way  for  the  infantry.  The  cavalry 
can  only  act  as  a  reserve,  to  cover  the  infantry  if 
repulsed,  and  to  secure  the  flanks  from  an  ofiensive 
movement  against  them. 

.  266.  The  infantry  will  be  divided  into  three  par- 
ties for  the  attack ;  one,  which  will  display  as  skir- 
mishers, may  be  a  sixth  of  the  whole;  another, 
which  will  act  as  the  supports  of  the  first,  may  be 
about  the  one-half  of  the  whole ;  and  the  remaining 
third  will  form  the  reserve.  ,  The  party  in  advance, 
in  dispersed  order,  will  get  over  the  ground  as  rapidly 
as  possible,  and  endeavor  to  close  with  the  enemy's 
skirmishers,  relying  almost  exclusively  on  the  bayo- 
net. Their  supports  will  follow  in  line,  at  from  one 
hundred  to  one  hundred  and  fifty  paces  in  their  rear, 
the  reserves  at  about  the  same  distance  in  rear  of  the 
supports,  taking  advantage  of  the  ground  to  screen 
themselves  from  the  enemy's  fire.  If  the  advanced 
party  succeeds  in  its  attack  upon  the  interior  de- 
fenses, they  will  follow  up  the  enemy  closely,  and 
give  him  no  opportunity  to  halt  and  make  a  stand ; 


DETACHMENTS.  117 

the  supports  will  advance  and  clear  the  streets  with 
the  bayonet.  Should  the  enemy  form  across  a  wide 
street  to  stop  the  advance,  the  skirmishers  will  move 
forward  in  open  order,  taking  advantage  of  any  shel- 
ters to  cover  themselves,  and  by  their  fire  force  the 
enemy  to  deliver  his,  and  the  supports  and  reserve 
in  mass  will  attack  with  the  bayonet.  So  soon  as  an 
entrance  is  secured,  the  skirmishers  and  supports  will 
drive  the  enemy  from  the  interior  defenses  in  their 
front,  whilst  the  reserve  will  push  forward  to  the 
central  point,  to  attack  his  reserve,  if  posted  there,' 
and  to  be  in  readiness  to  support  the  advanced 
parties  at  any  point  where  succor  may  be  neces- 
sary. 

267.  "Whenever  they  can  be  procured,  a  party  of 
well  trained  sappers  should  be  sent  forward  with  the 
advance,  to  clear  any  obstacles  by  which  their  pro- 
gress might  be  impeded.  If  this  description  of 
troops  is  not  to  be  obtained,  a  few  active  men,  used 
to  handling  the  axe  and  pick,  should  be  detailed  for 
this  necessary  duty. 

168.  In  case  of  the  repulse  of  the  advance,  they 
will  fall  back  to  the  nearest  cover  from  which  they 
can  open  a  fire  on  the  enemy,  and  after  being  joined 
by  their  supports  will  renew  the  attack. 

269.  Handling  of  Skir^nishers. — Skirmishers  play 
so  important  apart  in  all  affairs  of  detachments,  as 
well  as  in  engagements  cf  larger  bodies,][the  circum- 
stances being  rare,  either  in  the  attack  or  defense, 
where  they  cannot  be  employed  with  considerable 
effect,  either  to  harass  or  occupy  the  enemy,   that  a 


118  DETACHMENTS. 

few  words  may  be  here  especially  given  to  the  man- 
ner of  handling  them,  even  at  the  risk  of  repeating 
what  has  been  already  laid  down. 

270.  The  number  of  skirmishers  employed  will 
greatly  depend  on  the  features  of  the  ground,  as  be- 
ing more  or  less  favorable  to  the  action  of  cavalry 
or  of  infantry  in  mass.  In  no  case,  however,  should 
the  main-body  be  unduly  weakened  by  detaching 
too  many  skirmishers.  A  third  of  the  entire  force  is 
the  most  that  can  be  safely  thrown  forward  for  this 
duty;  and,  if  it  be  found  that  they  are  unable  to 
maintain  their  ground  in  the  presence  of  the  enemy, 
it  will  be  safer  to  cause  them  to  fall  back  and  rein- 
force the  main-body,  by  forming  on  the  flanks,  or 
any  previously  designated  point,  than  to  detach  from 
the  main-body  for  their  support. 

271.  The  manner  of  forming  a  line  of  skirmishers, 
iind  posting  their  supports  and  reserves,  with  the 
other  ordinary  manoeuvres  for  extending,  advancing, 
retiring,  &c.,  belong  to  elementary  tactics,  and  re- 
quire no  comment  here.  A  few  precepts,  however, 
may  be  mentioned,  as  connected  with  this  subject. 
The  line  of  skirmishers  should  not  be  pushed  so  far 
in  advance  of  the  main-body  that  the  latter  will  not 
be  able  to  come  to  their  aid  in  time,  if  they  should 
be  vigorously  pressed  by  the  enemy,  or  be  able  to 
profit  by  any  advantages  obtained  by  them.  The  re- 
serves to  support  the  line  should  in  all  cases  be  near 
enough  for  this  object,  and,  as  far  as  practicable,  be 
posted  where  the}'^  can  readily  find  cover  from  the 
enemy's  fire ;  taking  advantage,  for  this  purpose,  of 


DETACHMENTS.  119 

any  irregularities  of  ground  or  shelters,  like  walls, 
hedges,  ditches,  &c.  The  reserves  may  be  of  less 
strength  in  broken  than  in  open  ground,  being, 
however,  never  less  than  a  fourth  in  the  former,  nor 
a  third  in  the  latter  case. 

272.  The  position  of  skirmishers  in  advance  of  the 
main-body  will  depend  on  the  natural  features  of  the 
ground.  As  a  general  rule,  they  ought  to  cover  both 
the  front  and  flanks  of  the  main-body,  extending  far 
enough  beyond  each  flank  for  the  latter  purpose;  and, 
in  all  manceuvres  of  the  main-bod}'  in  the  face  of  the 
enemy,  it  should  be  protected  by  skirmishers  until 
the  new  position  is  taken  up. 

273.  It  is  seldom  necessary  to  throw  forward  the 
skirmishers  before  the  main-body  is  ready  to  com- 
mence the  action.  They  should  dcplo}'^  and  extend 
before  coming  within  reach  of  the  enemy's  mus- 
ketry ;  and,  when  the  lines  are  near  enough  to  en- 
gage, they  should  retire  to  the  positions  previously 
assigned  them, 

274.  A  quick  eye,  presence  of  mind,  and  good 
judgment  in  taking  up  ground,  are  indispensable  to 
an  officer  in  command  of  skirmishers,  to  enable  him 
to  keep  his  troops  easily  in  hand,  preventing  them 
from  rushing  on  headlong  in  the  pursuit,  when  any 
success  is  gained,  and  directing  them  to  seize  upon 
every  cover,  either  in  advancing  or  retiring,  from 
which  the}^  can  with  advantage  annoy  the  enemy  or 
hold  him  in  check. 

275.  The  accuracy  of  aim,  upon  which  the  good 
effects  to  be  obtained  by  skirmishers  depends,  requires 


120  DETACHMENTS. 

that  the  men  should  be  kept  cool  and  in  good  order. 
All  hurried  and  violent  movements  by  which  the 
men  may  lose  breath  and  become  exhausted,  should 
be  avoided;  and  they  should  be  frequently  cautioned 
against  rapid  firing,  which  soon  impairs  the  aim,  and 
be  directed  never  to  raise  the  piece  until  they  feel 
sure  of  their  shot. 

276.  In  an  advance  movement  of  skirmishers, 
their  line  will  necessarily  have  to  conform  to  the 
features  of  the  ground ;  when  this  is  open,  the  align- 
ment should,  as  far  as  practicable,  be  preserved ;  and 
when  broken,  the  officers  should  see  that  mutual  sup- 
port is  given  throughout  between  the  detached  por- 
tions, and  that  those  on  the  flanks  be  particularly  cau- 
tioned not  to  suffer  their  attention  to  be  so  much 
taken  up  by  the  enemy  in  front  as  to  neglect  secur- 
iug  the  flanks  from  [any  attempt  upon  them,  either 
openly  or  by  ambush. 

277.  Whenever  an  open  portion  of  ground  occurs, 
it  should  be  gotten  rapidly  over,  so  that  the  men  shall 
be  exposed  as  little  as  may  be;  and,  if  there  is  any 
apprehension  from  the  enemy's  cavalry  in  such  cases, 
the  men  should  be  kept  well  together,  or  even  be 
rallied  on  the  reserves,  until  the  character  of  the 
ground  will  enable  them  to  deploy  with  safety. 

278.  If  the  more  advanced  portions  come  upon  the 
enemy  in  force,  they  should  halt  and  occupy  him  in 
front;  whilst  a  portion  may  try  to  turn  him,  or  to 
annoy  his  flanks.  In  like  manner,  in  a  successful 
attack  on  the  enemy's  out-posts,  the  skirmishers  should 
endeavor  to  maintain  their  ground  when  they  come 


DETACHMENTS.  121 

upon  his  main  body,  by  occupying  its  attention  until 
their  own  main  force  can  come  up. 

279.  In  the  attack  upon  all  covered  positions  held  by 
the  enemy,  skirmishers  play  the  most  important  part, 
and,  although  it  may  require  the  action  of  masses  to 
dislodge  the  enemy  under  some  circumstances,  there 
are  but  few  in  which,  by  a  judicious  selection  of 
ground,  skirmishers  may  not  greatly  bother  him. 
The  broken  features  presented  by  wooded  and  rocky 
ravines,  or  the  beds  of  small  fordable  streams,  from 
the  opposite  side  of  which  an  enemy  must  be  rooted 
out  before  ground  can  be  gained  forward,  are  ugly 
circumstances  in  an  advance  movement;  and  great 
skill  and  patience  are  requisite  on  the  part  of  both 
officers  and  men  to  accomplish  their  object.  Points 
which  afford  a  good  cover  for  a  few  men,  or  from 
which  a  commanding  or  a[flanking  view  of  the  enemy's 
line  can  be  obtained,  should  be  sought  for ;  and, 
where  the  men  would  be  much  exposed  in  gaining 
such  points,  from  the  open  character  of  the  interven- 
ing ground,  they  should  be  sent  forward  singly,  with 
directions  as  to  the  best  probable  manner  of  attaining 
their  object,  and  be  particularly  cautioned  against 
exposing  themselves  in  little  knots  of  three  or  four 
together,  as  the  chances  of  casualties  will  be  thereby 
increased.  If  the  crest  of  a  hill  intervenes  in  a  pur- 
suit, it  should  be  gained  with  great  caution,  for  fear 
of  coming  suddenly  upon  the  enemy  in  force  on  the 
opposite  side. 

280.  "When  the  enemy  occupies  strong  artificial 
obstacles,  as  palisades,  an  abatis,  yards,  of  which  the 

I 


122  DETACHMENTS. 

walls  are  loop-holed,  &c.,  an  attempt  should  be  made 
to  dislodge  him  by  shells  from  howitzers ;  the  troops 
for  the  assault  may  then  be  advanced  as  skirmishers, 
and  when  within  about  two  hundred  paces,  should 
clear  the  intervening  ground  at  full  speed,  in  closing. 

281.  In  attacks  upon  forests,  the  intervening  open 
ground  must  be  cleared  in  a  similar  style;  and  after 
the  enemy  has  been  dislodged  from  the  skirts,  the 
further  advance  should  be  cautiously  made,  attention 
being  paid  to  preserving  the  general  alignment,  the 
men  taking  care  to  avoid  leaving  any  considerable 
gaps  between  them,  or  of  losing  sight  of  each  other. 
A  vigilant  eye  should  be  kept  upon  securing  the  com- 
munications to  the  rear  by  the  reserves,  in  case  of 
being  forced  to  retire ;  and,  before  passing  cross-roads, 
it  should  be  well  ascertained  that  they  do  not  offer 
any  facilities  for  an  oifensive  movement  of  the  enemy. 

282.  Whenever  a  defile  is  met  with,  which  is  not 
strongly  guarded,  some  of  the  line  of  skirmishers 
may  enter  it  boldly,  relying  on  the  bayonet,  whilst 
others  take  up  points  from  which  they  can  enfilade  it; 
but  if  the  enemy  makes  a  show  of  a  vigorous  resist- 
ance, the  skirmishers  should  seize  upon  the  best  points 
on  its  flanks,  from  which  a  warm,  steady  fire  can  be 
kept  up  on  it,  and  hold  them  until  their  reserves,  or 
if  necessary  the  main  body,  can  come  up  and  force 
their  way  with  the  bayonet.  When  the  defile  is  car- 
ried, the  reserves  follow  the  onward  movement  of 
the  line  of  skirmishers,  leaving  it  to  be  held,  if  it  be 
thought  necessary,  by  a  detachment  from  the  main 
body. 


DETACHMENTS.  123 

283.  Skirmishers  necessarily  play  a  very  important 
part  in  mountainous  warfare,  as  the  broken  character 
of  the  ground  presents  many  points  from  which  it 
may  become  exceedingly  difficult  to  dislodge  an 
enemy  thoroughly  conversant,  from  some  days'  occu- 
panc}'',  with  all  its  resources.  In  such  attacks,  as  the 
valley-passes  will  usually  be  occupied  by  the  strength 
of  the  enemy,  the  skirmishers  must  try  to  gain  suc- 
cessively the  heights  on  the  flanks  of  the  main  posi- 
tion ;  care  being  taken  that  no  party  gets  too  much 
in  advance  of  the  other.  If  the  enemy  retires,  a 
portion  of  the  skirmishers  should  follow  closely  upon 
his  rear,  whilst  others  occupy  commanding  points 
from  which  they  can  keep  up  a  w^ell-directed  fire  on 
him.  If,  in  the  pursuit,  paths  should  be  found  lead- 
ing to  the  flanks,  or  rear  of  the  enemy's  main  posi- 
tion, some  detachments  may  be  pushed  forward  in 
these  directions,  to  bother  the  enemy,  whilst  the  rest 
join  in  the  main  attack. 

284.  If  a  vigorous  resistance  is  offered  by  the 
enemy,  it  will  be  necessary  to  employ  a  number  of 
small  detachments  to  dislodge  him  from  every  cover. 
These  should  advance  along  the  most  advantageous 
paths,  proceeding  with  great  caution,  and  leaving  no 
suspicious  points  to  the  rear,  until  they  are  thoroughly 
searched  and  their  character  ascertained.  The  com- 
muni?ations  to  the  rear,  by  which  the  skirmishers 
will  have  to  retire  if  repulsed,  must  be  well  secured 
by  the  reserves,  who  will  usually  take  post  at  the 
junction  of  cross-roads,  or  in  other  positions  favora- 
ble to  receiving  the  skirmishers  and  covering  their 
retreat. 


124  DETACHMENTS. 

285.  If  an  isolated  post  of  the  enemy  is  met  with, 
every  point  around  it,  from  which  a  fire  can  be 
brought  to  bear,  should  be  occupied  by  skirmishers, 
and  a  stead}^  unintermitted  fire  be  kept  up  against 
it  until  he  is  dislodged,  or  driven  from  it  by  an  attack 
with  the  bayonet  by  the  reserves. 

286.  In  the  retreat,  every  advantageous  point 
which  offers  cover  to  skirmishers,  should  be  seized  on 
by  them,  to  hold  the  enemy  in  check,  and  thus  give 
time  to  the  main  body  to  retire  in  good  order.  The 
skirmishers,  however,  should  not  fall  too  far  to  rear, 
so  as  not  to  compromise  their  own  safety ;  whenever 
obliged  to  this,  a  part  of  the  reserves  may  be  thrown 
forward,  to  reinforce  the  line,  and  give  more  vigor  to 
its  fire;  but  a  part  should  always  be  kept  in  reserve 
to  be  ready  for  any  emergency.  If  the  retreat  be 
through  a  defile,  and  the  enemy's  pursuit  is  feeble,  it 
will  usually  be  only  necessary  to  deploy  the  reserves 
of  the  skirmishers  on  such  ground,  on  the  right  and 
left  of  the  entrance  to  it,  as  may  be  favorable  to 
bringing  a  good  fire  to  bear  on  the  enemy.  As  soon 
as  the  main  body  has  cleared  the  defile,  or  is  suffi- 
ciently beyond  the  reach  of  an  active  pursuit,  the 
skirmishers  and  their  reserves  retire  by  sections,  keep- 
ing at  from  two  to  three  hundred  paces  in  the  rear  of 
the  main  body.  In  case  the  enemy  should  push  for- 
ward with  vigor,  the  skirmishers  adopt  the  same 
measures ;  ',but  the  additional  precaution  should  be 
taken  of  holding  the  outlet  of  the  defile,  by  a  detach- 
ment posted  advantageously  for  that  object,  until  all 
the  skirmishers  have  cleared  it. 


DETACHMENTS.  125 

287.  In  all  positions  taken  up  for  the  defensive  in 
mountainous,  or  broken  ground,  whether  the  valleys 
or  the  heights  be  occupied,  those  points  from  which 
the  troops  might  be  annoyed  by  the  enemy's  skir- 
mishers should  be  guarded  by  our  own,  as  well  as  all 
pathways  leading  to  them;  attention  should  be  given 
so  to  post  our  skirmishers  as  to  take  the  enemy  in 
flank  in  his  assault  upon  the  front  of  the  position. 

288.  The  safety  of  the  communications  must  be 
carefully  looked  to  in  a  retreat,  and  for  this  object 
the  position  of  the  reserves  should  be  judiciously 
selected,  taking  them  at  those  points  where  the  enemy 
would  be  met,  should  he  take  paths  or  cross-roads, 
passing  beyond  the  flanks  of  the  line  occupied  by  the 
skirmishers,  to  gain  their  rear.  The  skirmishers  them- 
selves should  not  hold  possession  too  long  of  any  point, 
in  order  not  to  have  their  safety  compromised,  by 
leaving  too  wide  an  interval  between  themselves  and 
the  main  body  ;  and  whenever  they  are  thrown  into 
inclosurcs,  they  should  see  that  easy  communications 
are  opened  to  the  rear  for  a  timely  exit. 

289.  Although  skirmishers  should  rely  mainly  on 
a  steady,  well-directed  fire,  for  the  attainment  of  their 
ends,  still  a  resort  to  the  bayonet  by  the  reserves 
should  not  be  overlooked;  as,  by  a  judicious  combi- 
nation of  caution  with  boldness,  the  enemy  may  not 
only  be  held  in  check,  and  be  constrained  to  a  very 
circumspect  course,  but  may  be  frequently  so  forced 
back  as  to  enable  the  skirmishers,  if  it  be  advisable,  to 
recover  lost  ground. 

290.  The  fact  should  never  be  lost  sight  of,  that  a 
line  of  skirmishers  is  weak  in  itself,  and  even  power- 


126  DETACHMENTS. 

less  when  exposed  to  the  attack  of  cavalry,  or  that  of 
infantry  in  mass.  It  offers  but  a  bad  mark  to  the 
enemy's  round  shot  in  front,  but  it  may  be  greatly 
damaged  from  an  enfilading  position,  and  care  should 
therefore  be  taken  not  to  post  a  line  behind  any  obsta- 
cle which,  like  a  hedge,  or  ditch,  may  so  present  itself 
to  the  enemy's  batteries.  The  line  may  also  greatly 
suffer  when,  manoeuvring  in  open  ground,  it  comes 
within  short  range  of  the  grape  and  canister  of  the 
enemy.  The  true  tactics,  therefore,  of  skirmishers, 
is  to  avoid  open  ground,  and  to  throw  themselves  into 
that  which  presents  obstacles  to  the  enemy's  move- 
ments, and  affords  covers  not  exposed  to  enfilading 
views  of  his  batteries;  to  seek  for  positions  from 
which  their  fire  will  annoy  the  enemy  both  in  front 
and  flank,  occupying  him  in  front  whilst  ground  is 
gained  on  the  flank;  and  in  all  changes  of  position, 
whether  advancing  or  retiring,  to  move  from  one  to 
the  other,  both  with  celerity  and  by  an  orderly 
simultaneous  movement. 

291.  Escalading. — This  is  a  means  of  attack  upon 
which  our  English  friends  rather  pique  themselves, 
in  spite  of  some  signal  failures  during  the  Peninsular 
campaigns,  and  some  successes,  in  which  as  much  seems 
to  have  been  owing  to  chance  as  to  any  other  cause 
— as  the  reader,  who  may  look  over  Jones's  Journal 
of  the  Sieges  carried  on  in  these  campaigns,  will  find. 
Since  that  time  it  has  been  successfully  used  in  the 
attacks  made  on  the  stockade  forts  in  India.  How 
far  it  might  succeed  again t^t  ourselves,  we  have  no 
means  of  judging,  as  in  the  attempts  by  our  friends 
on  our  slight  field-works,  during   the  last   war,   very 


DETACHMENTS.  127 

few  of  them  had  an  opportunity  of  getting  further 
than  the  ditch,  under  the  deadly  fire  of  our  well- 
practiced  citizens.  It  is  a  resource,  however,  when 
others  fail ;  and,  in  a  favorable  moment,  may  suc- 
ceed, either  through  the  surprise  or  cowardice  of  the 
assailed. 

292,  In  a  litttle  work  on  the  Attack  of  Military 
Posts,  Sf'c,  by  Captain  (now,  we  believe,  Colonel,) 
Jebb,  of  the  Koyal  Engineers — which,  as  well  as  his 
Defense  of  Out-posts,  is  cordially  commended  to  the 
perusal  of  our  young  officers,  for  its  practical  details 
and  capital  common-sense  views,  maugrc  its  slap- 
dash flippancy  of  style,  with  which  the  Jtmiors  of 
the  British  line,  it  seems,  must  be  indulged,  to  cheat 
them  into  a  little  study  of  their  art — the  manner  of 
conducting  an  assault  by  escalade  is  given  with  some 
detail.  Whether  the  groups  termed  rallying  columns 
by  the  author,  would  act  more  harmoniously  towards 
the  attainment  of  the  main  object  than  the  groups  of 
another  more  celebrated  system,  also  brought  to- 
gether by  their  attractional  sympathies,  experiment 
alone  can  determine. 

293.  The  following  is  the  outline  of  the  method  of 
escalade  proposed  by  Col.  Jebb,  in  the  work  referred 
to:  Ladders  of  suitable  length  foi  the  enterprise  are 
to  be  provided  for  scaling  the  scarp ;  the  one  pro- 
posed is  three  feet  longer  than  the  height  of  the  scarp, 
so  that  the  foot  of  the  ladder  being  planted  a  pace  or 
two  from  the  bottom  of  the  wall,  the  top  may  pro- 
ject far  enough  above  tlie  w:»ll  to  enable  the  men  to 
step  from  the  ladder  with  ease,  in  an  upright  position. 
An  allowance  of  one  ladder  is  made  for   every  five 


128  DETACHMENTS. 

feet  of  the  face  to  be  scaled — one  hundred  feet,  for 
example,  requiring  twenty  ladders. 

294.  To  each  ladder,  from  four  to  six  men  are  as- 
signed, according  to  its  length.  The  ladders  are 
borne,  in  the  usual  manner,  on  the  shoulders  of  the 
men,  two  or  three  being  placed  on  each  side  for  this 
purpose. 

The  ladders  for  scaling  the  scarp  are  assigned  to 
the  advance.  A  second  set  of  less  dimensions,  for 
descending  into  the  ditch  only,  are  assigned  to  the 
support.  The  scarp  ladders  are  placed  on  the  ground 
in  line,  at  some  suitable  point,  with  the  proper  inter- 
vals between  them ;  the  men  to  carry  them,  properly 
"told  oflF,"  are  drawn  up  in  rear  of  them,  and,  at 
the  proper  commands,  are  marched  to  their  places  at 
the  sides  of  the  ladders,  and  raise  them  ready  for  the 
forward  movement.  Similar  dispositions  are  made 
for  the  counterscarp  ladders,  which  are  placed  in 
line,  from  100  to  150  yards  in  rear  of  the  others. 

295.  At  a  given  signal,  the  whole  are  to  move 
forward,  covered  by  an  advanced  firing  party,  to 
keep  down  the  fire  of  the  work,  and  followed  by  a 
reserve. 

The  scarp  ladders  are  let  down  into  the  ditch,  the 
men  descend,  carrying  them  across  it,  plant  them 
against  the  scarp,  and  mount  to  the  top.  The  top  of 
the  parapet  gained,  the  men  are  to  group  themselves 
rapidly  in  rallying-columns,  and  proceed  to  clear  the 
parapet  by  charging  the  assailed  in  flank. 

296.  The  support  and  reserve,  in  the  meantime, 
are  to  follow  on  without  loss  of  time,  to  take  their 
share  in  the  action. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

CONVOYS. 

297.  To  conduct  a  convoy  in  safety  through  an  en- 
emy's territory,  whore  it  is  exposed  to  attacks  either 
of  regular  or  of  partisan  troops,  is  one  of  the  most 
hazardous  operations  of  war,  owing  to  the  ease  with 
which  a  very  inferior  force  may  take  the  escort  at 
disadvantage,  in  defiles,  or  other  positions  favorable 
to  an  ambuscade  or  surprise,  and  to  the  difficulty  of 
securing  a  long  column,  like  that  presented  by  a  con- 
voy, from  a  sudden  attack. 

298.  The  escort  should  be  of  sufficient  strength  to 
beat  off  any  presumed  force  that  the  enemy  can  bring 
against  it.  A  weak  escort  will  only  hold  out  a  temp- 
tation to  the  enemy  to  attack  the  convoy.  "When 
the  convoy  is  of  very  great  importance,  it  may  be 
necessary,  besides  giving  it  a  strong  escort,  to  throw 
out  detachments  between  its  line  of  march  and  the 
enemy ;  and  when  there  are  posts  occupied  by  our 
troops  along  this  line,  they  should  keep  up  a  vigilant 
system  of  patrols,  pushing  them  as  far  out  as  prac- 
ticable, so  that  the  escort  may  receive  aid  and  timely 
notice  of  any  hostile  movement. 

The  escort,  when  it  is  deemed  necessary,  should  be 
composed  of  all  arms,  but  always  of  both  infantry 


130  CONVOYS. 

and  cavalry,  as,  from  the  necessity  of  gaining  timely 
information  of  the  enemy's  approach,  patrols  of  cav- 
alry must  be  pushed  out  to  some  distance,  both  in 
front  and  on  the  flanks. 

299.  As  the  convoy  must  be  perfectly  hemmed  in 
and  guarded  on  all  points  by  its  escort,  the  latter  is 
usually  divided  into  five  principal  portions  with  this 
object;  an  advanced-guard,  which  is  preceded  by  a 
small  detachment  to  scour  and  search  the  ground  in 
front  of  the  line  of  march,  a  rear-guard,  flankers, 
and  the  main-body.  For  the  purpose  of  presenting 
a  suflicient  force  upon  those  points  of  the  convoy  that 
will  probably  be  assailed,  the  main-body  is  subdi- 
vided into  four  unequal  portions;  one-half  of  it  will 
constitute  a  reserve,  one-fourth  will  form  a  guard  for 
the  centre  of  the  convoy,  and  the  remaining  fourth 
will  be  divided  into  two  equal  portions,  one  of  which 
will  march  directly  at  the  head  of  the  convoy,  and 
the  other  close  in  its  rear.  This  subdivision  of  the 
main-body  is  made  on  the  supposition  that  the  enemy 
will  attack  the  convoy  either  at  the  centre,  or  in  the 
front,  or  rear.  If  the  attack  is  made  upon  either  of 
the  two  last  points,  the  divisions  for  their  protection 
can  be  readily  reinforced  by  the  advanced  or  the  rear- 
guard. As  the  reserve  must  be  in  readiness  to  rein- 
force any  point  menaced,  and  to  offer  a  vigorous  re- 
sistance, its  strength  should  be  greater  than  either  of 
the  other  divisions. 

300.  The  order  of  march  of  the  escort  will  be  regu- 
lated mainly  by  the  natural  features  of  the  ground 
passed  over.     The  advanced-guard  will  precede  the 


CONVOYS.  131 

convoy  about  a  thousand  paces.  The  detachment  by 
which  it  is  preceded,  and  which  should  consist  of 
cavalry,  will  push  forward  as  far  as  it  can  with 
safety,  taking  care  to  scour  thoroughl^^  all  the  ground 
passed  over.  The  flankers,  which  will  also  usually 
be  composed  of  cavalry,  will  be  divided  into  platoons, 
and  be  thrown  out  as  far  as  circumstances  will  per- 
mit. Each  platoon  will  throw  out  a  small  detach- 
ment on  its  outer  flank,  which  last  will  furnish  ve- 
dettes to  move  along  the  outward  flank  of  the  detach- 
ment. The  reserve  will  usually  occupy  some  point 
near  the  centre  of  the  convoy.  The  rear-guard  will 
leave  about  1000  paces  between  it  and  the  tail  of  the 
column.  The  divisions  immediately  at  the  head  and 
tail  of  the  train  will  keep  close  to  the  convoy.  The 
centre  division  will  usually  be  divided  into  two  por- 
tions, one  being  on  each  flank  of  the  convoy,  a  space 
of  eight  or  ten  paces  being  left  in  the  centre  of  the 
train  for  these  portions  to  pass  to  either  flank,  as  cir- 
cumstances may  require. 

301.  The  convoy  is  placed  under  the  orders  of  an 
oflScer,  subordinate  to  the  commandant  of  the  escort, 
who  is  charged  with  everything  appertaining  to  its 
police,  &c.  A  detachment  of  pioneers  or  sappers, 
should  precede  the  convoy,  to  rei)air  the  roads  and 
bridges,  &c.  A  few  wagons,  with  all  the  necessary 
implements  for  the  sappers,  should  accompany  the 
convoy ;  and  it  is  also  recommended  to  carry  with  it 
a  few  chevaux-de-f7'ise,  the  lances  of  which  are  of 
iron,  and  connected  with  the  bodies  by  hinges,  to 
pack  conveniently,  in  order  to  form  a  temporary  ob- 


132  CONVOYS. 

stacle  against  the  enemy's  cavalry,  when  the  convoy 
parks  for  the  night,  or  when  threatened  with  an 
attack. 

302.  When  a  part  of  the  convoy  consists  of  bat- 
horses,  or  mules,  they  should  be  placed  at  the  head 
of  the  column  of  wagons,  as  they  are  found  to  travel 
better  in  this  position  than  when  in  the  rear. 

303.  Distribution  of  the  Train. — The  train  is  usu- 
ally divided  into  four  sections.  If  money  or  powder 
form  a  part  of  the  train,  it  should  occupy  the  centre 
of  the  second  section,  as  this  point  is  usually  best 
protected.  The  provisions  and  other  munitions  will 
be  distributed  equally  among  the  other  sections,  so 
that,  should  any  one  be  cut  off  by  the  enemy,  a  por- 
tion of  each  kind  may  be  saved  in  the  remainder. 

304.  As  it  takes  some  time  to  set  the  whole  column 
in  motion,  the  horses  are  harnessed  and  hitched  to 
successively,  by  sections.  The  second  section  will 
not  commence  to  harness  until  the  first  is  ready  to 
move  off,  and  so  on  in  succession.  The  time  for  this 
operation  will  be  ascertained  by  the  ofiicer  in  charge 
of  the  convoy,  so  that  each  section  may  be  noti- 
fied of  the  proper  moment  to  prepare  for  the  march. 
This  should  be  done  in  order  not  to  fatigue  the 
horses  unnecessarily,  by  keeping  them  standing  in 
harness. 

305.  March  of  Ti^ain. — The  convoy  will  march  in 
single  or  double  files,  according  to  the  state  of  the 
roads.  The  files  should  not  be  doubled  unless  the 
road  is  wide  enough  for  three  files,  and  also  when 
the  train  can  march  in  this  order  at  least  an  hour. 


CONVOYS.  133 

otherwise  there  will  be  too  great  inconvenience  and 
loss  of  time  in  changing  the  order  of  march.  To 
pass  from  single  to  double  file,  the  hindmost  wagons 
of  the  first  and  third  sections  will  lead  off  to  the 
side  of  the  road,  and  so  on,  each  in  succession  to 
the  one  at  the  head.  Tlie  leading  wagons  of  the 
second  and  fourth  sections  move  briskly  on  in  their 
new  line  of  direction,  followed  by  those  in  their  rear, 
until  they  come  up  with  the  leading  wagons  of  the 
other  two  sections.  An  interval  of  four  paces  should 
be  preserved  between  the  files.  To  change  from 
double  to  single  file,  the  first  section  quickens  its  pace, 
and  when  its  last  wagon  has  passed  the  leading  one 
of  the  second  section,  this  and  the  rest  of  the  section 
follow  in  the  new  line. 

806.  The  greatest  attention  should  be  paid  to  pre- 
serve regularity  and  good  order  in  the  march.  For 
this  purpose  small  detachments  of  infantry,  taken 
from  the  centre  division  of  the  escort,  should  march 
at  intervals  on  the  flanks  of  the  train.  "When  the 
number  of  men  will  admit  of  it,  each  wagon  should 
be  under  the  guard  of  a  soldier,  or  at  least  of  one 
man  to  three  wagons.  If  neither  of  these  arrange- 
ments can  be  made,  each  section  may  be  placed  under 
the  charge  of  four  or  five  horsemen,  who  will  keep 
in  constant  motion  along  the  line,  to  see  that  all  goes 
on  well.  If,  for  any  purpose,  a  wagon  is  obliged  to 
halt,  it  must  ftiU  out  of  the  line,  and  not  be  allowed 
to  enter  it  until  the  rear  wagon  of  its  section  has 
passed.     The  line  should  be  kept  well  closed  up,  the 


134  CONVOYS. 

leading  wagons  slackening  their  pace,  to  allow  the 
others  to  come  up,  if  retarded  by  any  obstacle. 

307.  Halt  of  Train. — When  from  any  cause  the 
convoy  is  forced  to  halt  for  some  time,  as  for  the  re- 
pair of  a  bridge,  the  passage  of  a  defile,  &c.,  the 
wagons  should  be  parked  either  in  lines  of  sections, 
or  as  many  in  line  as  the  character  of  the  ground 
will  admit  of.  An  interval  of  about  twenty  paces 
may  be  left  between  each  line.  If  there  is  any  ap- 
prehension of  an  attack  under  these  circumstances, 
the  lines  may  close  to  within  fifteen  paces,  the  open- 
ings on  the  flanks  being  covered  by  wagons  placed 
across  them. 

308.  Parking  of  Train. — "When  the  convoy  halts  to 
park  for  the  night,  a  strong  position  should  be  chosen, 
ofiering  only  one  side,  if  practicable,  to  an  attack. 
The  park  may  be  formed  by  lines  of  sections  or 
in  squares,  as  may  be  deemed  most  advisable.  The 
faces  of  the  park  should  be  flunked  by  some  pieces  of 
artillery,  and  the  angles  be  covered  by  any  temporary 
obstacle,  as  a  chevaux-de-frise,  a  slight  abatis,  &c.  The 
difterent  portions  of  the  escort  will  take  position  around 
the  park,  to  cover  it  from  the  enemy's  approach; 
those  divisions,  which  march  with  the  convoy,  being 
posted  behind  the  wagons,  and  the  obstacles  which 
cover  them.  The  usual  dispositions  of  outposts  and 
patrols  will  be  made,  to  guard  against  a  surprise.  It 
is  not  safe  to  park  in  villages,  nor  even  to  pass  through 
them  on  a  march,  when  powder  forms  a  part  of  the 
convoy. 

809.    When  the  park  is   formed  as  a  temporary 


CONVOYS.  135 

intrenchment,  to  cover  the  escort  against  an  attack, 
an  open  portion  of  ground  should  be  selected,  which 
offers  no  covers  for  the  enemy  to  approach  within 
musket-range.  The  wagons  may  be  placed  in  one 
line,  or  in  two,  if  their  number  is  sufficient  to 
inclose  the  necessary  ground  for  the  troops,  &c., 
so  as  to  form  a  square,  rectangular,  or  circular 
figure,  as  the  locality  may  require.  When  the 
inclosuro  is  formed  of  a  single  line  of  wagons,  they 
are  placed  wheel  to  wheel,  with  an  outlet  of  three 
or  four  feet  between  every  six  wagons,  a  wagon 
being  placed,  six  paces  to  the  rear  of  the  line,  behind 
each  outlet  to  close  it.  If  the  inclosure  is  a  double 
line,  the  wagons  are  placed  end  to  end,  and  wheel  to 
wheel,  outlets,  as  in  the  preceding  case,  being  left 
between  every  four  wagons,  and  closed  as  before.  The 
poles  of  four  wheel  carriages  are  placed  outwards; 
the  shafts  of  the  two  wheel,  inwards;  the  horses 
picketed  opposite  their  w\ngons.  The  wagons  that 
contain  ammunition,  or  valuables,  are  placed  within 
the  inclosuro,  at  the  point  regarded  as  least  exposed. 
If  the  convoy  is  surprised  on  a  march,  and  have  not 
time  to  park  in  square,  the  files  should  be  rapidly 
doubled  if  moving  in  single  file,  the  heads  of  the 
horses  be  turned  towards  the  centre  of  the  road,  so  as 
nearly  to  touch  each  other,  and  the  wagons  be  brought 
as  closely  together  as  practicable. 

310.  Duties  of  Escort. — All  the  usual  precautions, 
to  guard  a  column  in  march  against  a  surprise,  should 
be  redoubled  in  cases  of  convoys.  The  patrols  on 
the  flanks  and  in  front  should  push  as  far  out  as  prac- 


136  CONVOYS. 

ticable,  so  that  the  convoy  may  have  timely  warning 
of  an  enemy's  approach,  in  order  to  park,  according 
to  circumstances,  before  an  attack  can  be  made. 
"With  drivers  accustomed  to  their  business,  half  an 
hour  at  least  will  be  required  for  this  operation.  The 
advanced-guard  should  be  particularly  careful  to 
occupy  by  detachments  any  lateral  roads  which  might 
offer  the  enemy  a  favorable  point  of  attack  on  the 
convoy.  These  detachments  will  keep  their  posts 
until  the  convoy  has  passed,  and  they  will  join  the 
rear-guard  as  it  comes  up. 

311.  The  officer  in  command  of  the  head-division, 
marching  with  the  convoy,  will  see  that  his  detach- 
ment moves  on  regularly,  as  the  pace  of  the  convoy 
will  be  regulated  by  it ;  and,  from  time  to  time,  he 
will  bring  it  to  a  halt,  to  allow  the  carriages  to  close 
up;  this  precaution  must  be  carefully  attended  to 
when  near  an  enemy. 

312.  If  menaced  with  an  attack,  the  divisions  at 
the  head  and  tail  of  the  convoy  will  keep  their  posi- 
tions and  repel  the  enemy  by  their  fire  should  he 
attack;  the  centre  division  will  move  to  the  flank 
menaced,  and  take  position  to  cover  the  two  centre 
sections  of  the  convoy ;  the  reserve  will  move  towards 
the  point  threatened;  the  advanced  and  rear-guards 
and  flankers  will  close  upon  the  convoy  to  be  in  read- 
iness to  act  as  circumstances  may  require. 

313.  Before  entering  a  defile,  a  detachment  from 
the  reserve  should  be  sent  forward  to  secure  its  flanks 
and  outlet,  and  then  send  out  patrols  in  all  directions 
to  examine   the  ground  in  front,  and  see  that  all  is 


CONVOYS.  187 

safe.  As  the  convoy  comes  up  to  a  point  designated  in 
rear  of  the  defile,  it  is  parked  in  lines  of  sections.  The 
centre  division  of  the  escort  will  join  the  advanced- 
guard  to  cover  the  front;  the  rear- guard  will  take 
position  to  cover  the  rear ;  the  flankers  on  the  flanks ; 
and  the  reserve  in  a  central  position  to  advance  upon 

,  .the  point  which  may  be  attacked.  "When  the  patrols 
report  all  safe,  the  advanced-guard  and  centre  divis- 
ion pass  the  defile,  and  proceed  far  enough  beyond  it 

.to  cover  the  ground  where  the  convoy  will  park  as 
it  reaches  the  other  side;  the  reserve  and  flankers 
will  cover  the  flanks  of  the  convoy  as  it  moves  to  its 
new  position,  and  will  then  take  post  as  before;  the 
rear-guard  joined  by  any  detachments  left  to  secure 
particular  points  on  the  flanks  of  the  defile,  will  fol- 
low so  soon  as  the  convoy  and  the  rest  of  the  troops 
are  in  position.  When  all  the  troops  have  passed, 
strong  detachments  are  sent  forward,  in  all  directions, 
at  least  one  hour  before  the  convoy  is  again  put  in 
motion. 

314.  "When  the  escort  takes  position  at  night,  within 
the  park,  for  defence,  the  reserve  will  be  posted  in  the 
centre,  and  the  divisions  that  march  with  the  convoy 
in  rear  of  their  respective  sections.  The  advanced 
and  rear-guards  and  the  flankers  will  take  post  with- 
out, and  establish  their  out-posts  and  sentinels  in  the 
usual  way  for  safety.  The  cannon  placed  at  the  angles 
of  the  park,  will  be  supported  by  detachments  of 
infantry  and  cavalry  in  their  rear.  The  different 
divisions  will  throw  forward  skirmishers  to  meet  the 
enemy  if  he  attacks,  whilst  others   will  occupy  the 


138  CONVOYS. 

wagons  from  wliicli  they  can  fire.  Should  the  enemy 
not  be  beaten  off  by  the  fire  of  the  troops,  the  reserve 
will  sally  out  and  attack  with  the  bayonet. 

315.  Attack  of  Convoy. — An  attack  upon  a  convoy 
is  a  comparatively  easy  and  safe  operation,  and  may 
be  made  with  a  force  quite  inferior  to  the  escort,  as 
the  latter  is  obliged,  for  the  security  of  the  convoy, 
to  keep  on  the  defensive. 

It  will  usually  be  best  to  attempt  a  surprise, 
choosing  points  which  are  favorable  to  ambuscades. 
The  manner  of  conducting  the  attack  will  depend 
upon  its  object,  whether  it  be  to  capture  the  entire 
convoy,  to  cut  off  a  part  of  it,  or  simpl}-  to  delay  its 
march.  In  the  first  case,  the  escort  must  be  beaten 
and  dispersed,  whilst  a  detachment  is  sent  to  secure 
the  convoy.  In  the  second,  an  attack  may  be  made 
on  one  point  with  the  view  of  drawing  the  main- 
bod}'-  of  the  escort  to  the  defense  ot  that  point, 
whilst  a  detachment  attempts  to  cut  oft'  the  part  of 
the  convoy  from  which  the  escort  has  been  with- 
drawn. In  the  last  case,  the  convo}^  will  be  fre- 
quently menaced  with  an  attack,  to  force  it  to  halt 
and  park  for  defense;  the  roads  will  be  obstructed, 
bridges  broken  down,  &c. 

316.  If  the  attack  is  successful,  the  main-bodj^  of 
the  troops  should  be  kept  together  in  position,  to 
cover  the  captured  convoy,  whilst  the  detachment 
sent  to  secure  or  destroy  it,  is  performing  its  duty. 
The  cavalry  will  endeavor  to  disperse  the  escort,  and 
bring  in  all  the  horses  that  may  have  been  cut  loose 
from  the  convoy.     The  precaution  should   be  taken 


CONVOYS.  139 

of  having  spare  horses  in  harness  in  readiness  to 
take  the  places  of  those  which  the  escort  may  have 
cut  loose,  or  maimed,  to  prevent  the  wagons  from 
being  carried  off.  For  the  attack  of  a  convoy  parked 
for  defense,  some  pieces  of  artillery  will  be  neces- 
sary, and  howitzers  will  be  found  particularly  useful. 
Without  the  aid  of  this  arm  it  will  be  very  difficult 
to  force  a  defensive  park  with  infantry,  unless  the  es- 
cort is  very  feeble,  or  the  position  chosen  for  the 
park  presents  covers  within  the  effective  range  of 
musketry,  from  which,  after  keeping  up  a  well- 
directed  fire,  a  rush  may  be  made  on  the  park. 


CHAPTER    VII. 

SURPRISES    AND    AMBUSCADES. 

8l7.  These  two  classes  of  operations  depend  for 
th'6ir  success  upon  the  same  point — that  of  being  able 
to  attack  the  enemy  suddenly  when  he  is  not  pre- 
pared to  resist.  The  term  surprise  is  applied  to  un- 
expected attacks  upon  an  enemy's  position ;  that  of 
ambuscade,  where  a  position  is  taken  for  the  purpose 
of  falling  suddenly  upon  the  enemy  when  he  reaches 
it.  Secrecy,  good  troops,  and  a  thorough  knowledge 
of  the  localities,  are  indispensable  to  the  success  of 
either  of  these  operations. 

318.  Surprise. — In  planning  a  surprise,  the  officer 
must  spare  no  pains  in  ascertaining  the  face  of  the 
country  leading  to  and  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of 
the  enemy's  position,  the  character  and  disposition 
of  his  troops,  and  the  state  of  preparation  of  the 
defenses  of  the  position.  Information  may  be  ob- 
tained on  these  points  from  spies,  deserters,  inhabi- 
tants of  the  locality  occupied  by  the  enemy,  good 
maps,  «&c. 

319.  The  troops  to  be  employed  in  the  expedition, 
as  well  as  the  other  necessary  arrangements,  will  de- 
pend upon  the  information  gained  on  these  points. 
If  the  position  be  an  intrenched  one,  infantry  will 
constitute  the  main  force ;  cavalry  and  artillery  can 
be  of  little  other  use  than  to  cover  the  retreat  of  the 
infantry,  and  to  make  prisoners  of  those  who  may 


SURPRISES  AND  AMBUSCADES.  141 

escape  from  the  position.  A  body  of  engineer  troops 
or  of  picked  men  used  to  handling  tools,  will  accom- 
pany the  infantry,  carrying  with  them  such  imple- 
ments as  may  be  requisite  from  the  character  of  the 
defenses,  as  axes,  saws,  crowbars,  small  scaling  lad- 
ders, «&c. 

320.  If  the  position  be  not  intrenched,  as  an  open 
village,  &c.,  cavalry  may  perform  a  very  important 
part,  by  a  sudden  dash  among  the  enemy,  in  creating 
confusion  and  alarm. 

321.  As  the  success  of  the  affair  will  greatly  de- 
pend upon  the  secrecy  with  which  these  preparations 
are  made,  and  the  celerity  with  which  it  is  conducted, 
all  orders  for  collecting  the  necessary  implements  and 
assembling  the  troops,  should  be  given  at  the  shortest 
notice ;  no  more  troops  should  be  taken  than  are  in- 
dispensably necessary,  and  they  should  carry  nothing 
with  them  but  their  arms,  and  the  requisite  amount 
of  ammunition. 

322.  Midnight  is  the  best  hour  for  small  bodies  of 
troops  to  carry  out  such  enterprises,  as  they  must 
effect  all  they  desire  to  do  and  be  off  before  daybreak, 
A  few  hours  before  daylight  is  the  best  time  for  large 
expeditions,  as  the  dawn  of  day  will  be  favorable  to 
their  retreat,  by  which  time  they  will  have  been  able 
to  effect  their  purpose3.  The  season  of  the  year  and 
the  state  of  the  weather  should  be  taken  advantage 
of.  "Winter  and  bad  weather  are  most  favorable,  as 
the  enemy's  sentinels  and  out-posts  will  then,  in  all 
probability,  be  less  on  the  alert,  and  more  disposed 
to  keep  under  such  shelter  as  they  can  procure. 


142  SURPRISES  AND  AMBUSCADES. 

823,  As  our  purpose  may  be  divined  by  the  en- 
emy, measures  should  be  taken  against  such  a  con- 
tingency. These  will  mainly  consist  in  securing  by 
detachments  all  defiles  and  roads  by  which  our  re- 
treat might  be  cut  off,  and  by  designating  a  rallying 
point,  on  which  our  force  will  fall  back,  if  repulsed, 
which  should  be  strongly  occupied  by  cavalry  aud 
artillery,  if  they  constitute  a  part  of  the  force. 

324.  In  conducting  the  march,  the  troops  will  be 
kept  well  together  ;  the  greatest  order  and  silence  be 
observed.  Instead  of  the  ordinary  precautions  of  an 
advanced-guard  and  flankers,  reliance  should  rather 
be  placed  upon  a  few  active  and  intelligent  scouts,  to 
gain  timely  notice  of  any  movement  on  the  part  of 
the  enemy. 

325.  Concerted  attacks  upon  several  points  are 
good  means  of  creating  confusion  and  paralyzing  the 
enemy's  eflforts,  when  they  can  be  successfully  car- 
ried out ;  but,  as  they  may  require  some  of  the  de- 
tachments to  make  considerable  circuits  to  reach  their 
points,  much  will  depend  upon  chance  as  to  their 
success.  In  such  cases,  some  signal  must  be  agreed 
upon,  to  let  the  detachments,  already  in  position, 
know  when  those  which  are  likeliest  to  reach  theirs 
latest,  are  ready ;  but  this  may  have  the  incon- 
venience of  giving  the  alarm  to  the  enemy.  Eockets 
may  be  used  for  this  purpose,  and  also  to  give  notice 
to  the  troops  to  retire  together. 

326.  The  retreat  after  a  successful  issue,  should  be 
conducted  with  the  same  promptitude  as  the  advance. 
Time  must  not  be  lost  in  waiting  too  long  for  all  the 


SURPRISES  AND  AMBUSCADES.  143 

detachments  to  come  in  at  the  rallying  point,  as 
the  safety  of  the  whole  command  might  be  com- 
promised. 

327.  A77ibuscade.— In  planning  an  ambuscade,  we 
should  be  well  acquainted  with  the  enemy's  force, 
and  the  state  of  discipline  shown  by  it.  The  position 
chosen  for  the  attempt  must  be  favorable  to  the  con- 
cealment of  troops,  and  if  practicable  it  should  be 
reached  by  night,  every  precaution  being  taken  to 
insure  secrecy.  The  best  positions  are  those  where 
the  enemy  is  inclosed  by  a  defile,  or  vilhige,  and  has 
not  taken  the  proper  precautions  to  secure  himself 
from  an  attack.  By  seizing  the  outlets  of  the  defile 
by  infantry,  in  such  cases,  and  making  an  impetuous 
charge  of  cavalry  into  it,  the  enemy  may  be  com- 
pletely routed. 

328.  Ambuscades  may  frequently  be  attempted 
with  success  in  the  affairs  of  the  advanced  and  rear- 
guards, by  pushing  the  enemy  vigorously  and  then 
falling  back,  if  he  oflers  a  strong  resistance,  so  as  to 
draw  him  upon  a  point  where  troops  are  posted  in 
force  to  receive  him. 

329.  To  trace  anything  more  than  a  mere  outline, 
as  a  guide  in  operations  of  this  kind,  which  depend 
upon  so  many  fortuitous  circumstances,  would  serve 
but  little  useful  purpose.  An  active,  intelligent 
officer,  with  an  imagination  fertile  in  the  expe- 
dients of  his  profession,  will  seldom  be  at  a  loss  as 
to  his  best  course  when  the  occasion  offers;  to  one 
without  these  qualities,  opportunities  present  them- 
selves in  vain. 


Date  Due 

■ 

. 

Library  Bureau 

Cat.  no.     1137 

^W4-a  M214  17S018 

Tr.X 


Elementpvy   Typotigp    nr] 


_    —    _3  Ol_-  1  1- 


c»73.1«^4  M214  17£©1^ 

Tr.K.  I 


